Botanical Name: Vinca major ‘Wojo’s Gem’

Common Name: Variegated Vinca, Periwinkle

Hardiness Zone: Perennial in USDA Zones 4–9; Evergreen in Mild Climates

Size: 4–6" Tall × 12–18" Spread

Growth Habit: Low-Growing, Creeping, Mat-Forming, Compact

Sunlight: Partial Shade to Full Shade

Soil: Well-Drained Soil; Tolerates Poor Soils

Water Needs: Low to Moderate; Drought Tolerant Once Established

Bloom Season: Early to Mid Spring

Fertilizer: Minimal Feeding Required

Features: Cream-Edged Evergreen Foliage, Lavender-Blue Flowers, Controlled Spread, Shade Tolerance, Low Maintenance

Uses: Borders, Groundcover, Under Trees & Shrubs, Woodland Gardens, Foundations

Patent: ❌ Not Patented

Propagation: ✔ Easy to Propagate from Cuttings

More About Vinca ‘Wojo’s Gem’

Vinca ‘Wojo’s Gem’ is a compact, variegated selection of periwinkle valued for its restrained growth and refined appearance. Its soft green leaves edged in creamy white brighten shaded areas without the aggressive spread associated with larger vinca varieties.

Spring brings a flush of lavender-blue flowers that sit neatly above the foliage, adding seasonal interest while maintaining a clean, polished look. This variety is especially well suited to borders and smaller garden spaces where control and consistency matter.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In trials, ‘Wojo’s Gem’ consistently demonstrated excellent behavior in partial to full shade, forming an even mat without overrunning neighboring plants. Once established, it required very little supplemental water and maintained strong foliage color through varying conditions.

Its slower, more predictable spread makes it one of our preferred vincas for designed landscapes and foundation plantings, where neatness and long-term manageability are priorities.

Wojo’s Gem vs. Other Vinca Vines

‘Wojo’s Gem’ is the most restrained Vinca Vine that we carry. Unlike ‘Bowles Cunningham,’ it spreads slowly and stays compact, making it easier to integrate into mixed plantings and borders. Compared to ‘Illumination’, its variegation is softer and less flashy, favoring subtle contrast over brightness. This variety is best suited for gardeners who want evergreen groundcover without the maintenance concerns of more vigorous vinca. Relative to all three others, it places control and neatness above visual impact. It also carries the least visual weight when planted alongside the Vinca major cultivars.