Vinca spp.

Vinca spp. is toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The reported severity is critical. Also known as Periwinkles, Lesser Periwinkle and Greater Periwinkle.

dogs cats horses

Mild Moderate Severe Critical

This plant is known to be potentially deadly!

  • If you're comfortable with the risk, ensure this plant is out of reach of your animal.
  • If you suspect your animal has ingested portions of this plant, immediately consult your veterinarian.
  • If your animal is experiencing any of the associated symptoms, immediately contact your veterinarian's emergency number for further instructions.

If your animal ate this plant, call your veterinarian, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control on (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline on (855) 764-7661. Fees may apply.

Symptoms to watch for

Vomiting Diarrhea Low Blood Pressure Depression Tremors Seizures Coma Death

The color of each symptom follows the severity scale above.

About

Vinca is an Old World genus of flowering plants in the family Apocynaceae. The English name periwinkle is shared with the related genus Catharanthus. Some Vinca species are cultivated but have also spread invasively. Additionally, some species have medicinal uses. The most widespread species is Vinca minor.

Common Names

  • Periwinkles
  • Lesser Periwinkle
  • Greater Periwinkle
  • Madagascar Periwinkle
  • Intermediate Periwinkle
  • Herbaceous Periwinkle
  • Vinca-Leaved Ceropegia

Also recorded as European periwinkles, Periwinkle and Periwinkles [plants].

Facts

Family
Apocynaceae
Duration
Perennial
Growth habit
Forb/herb, Vine
In the wild
FR, GB, US, DE, NL, BE + more
Source
Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
Elsewhere

Countries with the most wild observations, from GBIF data.