The greater periwinkle Vinca major, like the related lesser periwinkle Vinca minor, belongs to the dogbane family and is relatively poisonous. However, this does not detract from its popularity in many private gardens.
Periwinkle is poisonous in all parts of the plant
Tradition as a medicinal plant and toxic ingredients
The periwinkle used to be considered an effective remedy for various types of health ailments, which is why it was also planted in many monastery and castle gardens. Today, its use in medicine is extremely limited, since it can be accompanied by severe side effects and severe symptoms of poisoning if the dosage is incorrect. The vincamine contained in all parts of the plant has a strong lowering effect on blood pressure and is suspected of having an extremely negative effect on the blood count.
Weigh the risks correctly
The fact that there are toxins in the tendrils and leaves of Vinca major doesn't mean you shouldn't plant a pretty carpet of flowers from this ground cover in your garden. Finally, the following plants are also poisonous and are still found in many private gardens:
- cherry laurel
- angel trumpet
- Thuja (one of the most common hedge plants)
- aconite
- laburnum
- autumn crocus
However, you can take certain measures to prevent accidents involving poisonous garden plants. Do not leave children and pets unsupervised in a garden with poisonous plants. In addition, poisonous plants can be planted in the middle of flower beds, or at least not grown right next to the patio.
tips
Vinca major is not only toxic to humans, but also to birds and other animals. Therefore, make sure that your pets are not tempted to nibble on the shoots of the periwinkle.