The Periwinkle flower is rich in history, meaning, and symbolism. Periwinkle is a shared name for Catharanthus roseus and species in the Vinca genus. These plants are all grown for medicinal and ornamental purposes around the world.
Keep reading to learn about Periwinkle flowers. We’ll discuss their symbolism throughout history to common meanings today.
Periwinkle Flower Meaning and Symbolism – The Essentials
In the language of flowers, periwinkles carry the symbolic meaning of faith, trust, and everlasting love. In Christianity, the Periwinkle flower represents chastity and purity. Some also see it as a symbol of new beginnings or friendships.
About Periwinkle Flowers
Scientific Facts
A species name of Periwinkle flowers is Catharanthus roseus. This plant belongs to the genus Catharanthus. It is commonly known as Madagascar Periwinkle, Pink Periwinkle, or Rose Periwinkle.
The Catharanthus genus is similar to the Vinca genus. Vinca is also commonly known as Periwinkle. Interestingly, Catharanthus roseus was once listed under the Vinca genus as Vinca rosea.
Catharanthus and Vinca plants are all members of the Apocynaceae plant family. This family is also known as the dogbane family.
Botanical Characteristics
Periwinkle flowers have five small petals. Their petals connect at a tubular center, forming a star shape.
Vinca petals are typically a shade of purple. Madagascar Periwinkle can be purple-pink, white, or light pink with a red center. None of these flowers is known for their scent.
History and Origins
Unsurprisingly, Catharanthus roseus was first discovered in Madagascar. Vinca flowers grow natively in areas around Europe. They also grow in northern Africa, and southern parts of Asia.
Popular Types of Periwinkle Flowers
Many different species have become popular under the name Periwinkle. Here’s a list of the popular flowers that share this common moniker.
- Catharanthus roseus
- Vinca difformis
- Vinca major
- Vinca minor
- Vinca erecta
- Vinca herbacea
Etymological Meaning
The etymological meaning of Periwinkle can be linked to the Latin word pervincire, which means to bind or entwine. This connection makes sense given the Periwinkle plant’s vining growth habit.
Where Do Periwinkle Flowers Grow Natively?
Now, Periwinkle flowers of different species grow natively all around the world. For example, the Catharanthus roseus grows natively in Madagascar. On the other hand, Vinca minor grows around the Mediterranean, among other regions.
Flowering Season
Periwinkle flowers tend to bloom in the warmer seasons of spring and summer. For instance, Vinca minor blooms in early spring and sometimes has a second blooming cycle during autumn. Catharanthus roseus blooms consistently from summer until the first frost.
Uses and Benefits of Periwinkle Flowers
Usually, Periwinkle flowers are grown for landscaping and ornamental purposes. However, there are several additional benefits to growing these charming species. Here are some ways growers have used Periwinkle flowers throughout history.
In Herbalism and Medicine
Simply put, Madagascar Periwinkle and Vinca plants are both used for medicinal purposes. Scientists have studied Caranthus roseus extensively. That’s because the species contains alkaloids indicated to treat certain cancers.
This plant is said to have medicinal roots as far back as 2600 BCE in Mesopotamia. Other practices that incorporate the species include Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine.
Additionally, the species Vinca minor contains a nootropic agent known as vincamine. This is used as a prescription to treat certain forms of dementia.
Bee Friendliness and Pollination
Periwinkle flowers are also helpful for attracting pollinators. Vinca species are good for attracting bees. Madagascar periwinkle is great for attracting butterflies, moths, and other beneficial insects.
Suitable Gifting Occasions
Periwinkle flowers look lovely when arranged in a bouquet with other springtime florals. Arrange them with white roses and eucalyptus as a gift for Mother’s day, graduation flowers, or welcoming a new baby.
The Meaning, Symbolism, and Cultural Significance of Periwinkle Flowers
Common Periwinkle Flower Colors and Their Meaning
The color you likely associate with Periwinkle flowers is a pale shade of blueish purple. This hue symbolizes a sense of calm or serenity. It can also represent new friendships or fond memories.
The white Periwinkle flower will often take on a meaning of purity or innocence. Periwinkle flowers of all shades, including pink and deep red, can represent everlasting love.
Religious Meaning of Periwinkle Flowers
In Christianity, the Periwinkle flower is often associated with chastity and purity. It also appears in Christian art depicting the Virgin Mary.
Cultural Symbolism and Meaning of Periwinkle Flowers
In France, the Periwinkle flower has an interesting nickname: Violette des sorciers. In English, this translates to the Sorcerer’s Violet.
The old English name of Periwinkle flowers was Parwynke. You can find this word in the works of Chaucer and other authors as far back as the early sixteenth century.
Other Periwinkle References Throughout History
The Romans knew Periwinkle by the name Pervinca, and it took similar names throughout history in other cultures. For example, find the word for Periwinkle in this medieval English saying:
“Crowned one with laurel leaves hye on his head set other with pervink made for the giblet.”
Some say this rhyme refers to a ritual where condemned people wore Periwinkle flowers on their heads.
Periwinkle Flowers in Art and Literature
Periwinkle flowers haven’t made many notable appearances in art and literature. However, the purple-blue hue known as periwinkle has stood out in various artistic movements. For example, Claude Monet’s Water Lilies shows how this color captured natural scenes during the impressionist period.
Meaning of Periwinkle Flowers Today
Today, Periwinkle flowers are popular in floral arrangements for events. In fact, they are an especially trendy choice in wedding decor. That’s because these flowers can act as the ‘something blue’ that many brides desire as a part of the age-old wedding tradition.
Wrapping Up
As you can see, the delicate Periwinkle flower has taken on many meanings dating back hundreds of years. Today, it’s a great flower to give as part of a bouquet or grow for landscaping purposes. Enjoy this species however you’d like, and allow it to symbolize the meaning that feels best to you.
Periwinkle Flower FAQs:
What do Periwinkle flowers symbolize?
Periwinkle flowers symbolize everlasting love, trust, and faith. Some religions have also used the flower to symbolize chastity and purity.
Do Periwinkle flowers come back every year?
No, Periwinkle flowers are considered annuals in most climates. However, in some areas, they can self-seed and grow the following year again.
What do Periwinkle flowers smell like?
Periwinkle flowers are not known for their fragrance.
What are Periwinkle flowers used for?
Periwinkle flowers are grown for ornamental and medicinal purposes around the world. Some use the plant to soothe issues like throat soreness and stomach issues. However, keep in mind that this plant is considered toxic to humans and pets.
What pollinators do Periwinkle flowers attract?
Periwinkle flowers attract various types of bees. They may attract some types of butterflies as well.
Are Periwinkle flowers poisonous to humans and animals?
Yes, Vinca plants and especially Catharanthus roseus are poisonous to animals and humans. They may cause issues like stomach issues and nausea if consumed.
Brandy Wells is an American copywriter and content writer living in Spain. From hiking in her hometown near the Smoky Mountains to digging in the dirt in rural Oregon, she has always put a love of nature at the heart of her endeavors. These days, you’ll catch her writing content, and of course, taking breaks to tend to her growing houseplant collection.
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