The Economic Times

By the late 1700s, European periwinkles had reached America; planted as ornamental ground cover, escaped plants covered 29,254 acres across 12 Southern states by 2008

European periwinkles, once introduced to enhance gardens in the US, have become a troublesome invasive species in natural habitats. Their sprawling growth can overshadow local flora, challenging native species for essential resources. Studies reveal that common periwinkle dramatically decreases the chances of survival for native tree seedlings. Ongoing management efforts are essential, as these plants can regenerate post-removal.