Despite being an invasive species across much of North America, periwinkle is still being sold in garden centers.
The popular purple flower often purchased as an easy ground cover is now drawing renewed attention in Canada due to its ability to spread beyond the garden and crowd out other plants.
What’s happening?
Periwinkle remains a common offering at Canadian and American garden centers despite being classified as invasive in much of the continent, The Weather Network explained in an August 5 video.
Periwinkle is often marketed as a simple, attractive fix for bare patches because it forms dense mats of greenery and produces beautiful blue-purple flowers. That makes it especially appealing to homeowners looking for low-effort coverage under trees, along fences, or in hard-to-mow spaces.
As the Weather Network explained, periwinkle “can take over large spaces, forming dense mats that choke out native wildflowers and tree seedlings. And once established, it’s incredibly difficult to remove.”
The result is a confusing message for consumers. A plant can seem harmless on a store shelf, seemingly being promoted by gardening advocates, while still creating ecological problems after it is planted.
Why does it matter?
Invasive plants can alter local ecosystems by pushing out species that wildlife relies on for food and shelter. When hardy ground covers take over, they can reduce biodiversity and make it harder for native flowers, shrubs, and seedlings to return.
“Low-maintenance” options sold in stores are not always the best fit for the surrounding environment.
However, replacing all or even part of a conventional lawn with native plants can save money and time on mowing, fertilizing, and upkeep while also lowering water bills. Other lower-maintenance options can include clover, buffalo grass, and xeriscaping, depending on your local conditions.
These swaps can help homeowners create yards that are more resilient in heat and drought while supporting pollinators and reducing the risk of introducing aggressive species into nearby green spaces.
If you are shopping for ground cover, it helps to look beyond the label at the garden center. Check whether a plant is native to your area, whether local conservation groups list it as invasive, and look up how it spreads over time.
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