Ultraviolet Flowers: Vinca minor

Vinca minor L.

Apocyanaceae

Visible light
(L37C filter)

UV light
(FF , SB-140)

IR light
(Wratten 89B, SB-140 with Wratten 87)

All images: Nikon D1H , UV-Nikkor 105 mm f/4.5 @800 ISO

Common Periwinkle is a small, creeping vine which in late spring is sprinkled with pale violet-coloured flowers. Its flowers exhibits a high UV reflectance of the petals. The centre area of the flower absorbs UV so a two-zoned pattern results. Interestingly the UV-discernable pattern does not coincide with the visual marks on the flower.

In common with many other species having bluish-tinged flowers, petals of V. minor reflect strongly in the near IR.