Vinca: The Trouble with Common Names

Latin scientific names can be challenging to pronounce but are tremendously important. We can communicate without ambiguity because each plant has only one scientific name. In contrast, a plant may have more than one common name, and common names may vary by region. Although easier to pronounce, using common names can result in a great deal of confusion and even frustration.

Let’s look at an example. If I were to speak about vinca, there are at least three plants to which I may be referring. Two of the plants are non-native invasive vines in the genus Vinca. The third is an annual bedding plant in the genus Catharanthus.

Since Vinca major and Vinca minor are considered non-native invasive species in South Carolina, it is not advisable to plant them. A previous blog authored by retired Extension Agent Laura Lee Rose explains why we should be concerned about invasive plants. One moral of the story is to use scientific names whenever possible. If annual vinca is your go-to plant to stand up to SC summers, you needn’t be concerned about it being invasive. Annual vinca is known to self-seed, so you may end up with “volunteers” next season.

For more information, see HGIC 1158, Annual Vinca.