_Periwinkle_ (Vol. i., p. 77.).--The following note, from Withering's
_Arrangement of British Plants_, vol. ii. p. 341. ed. 1830, will perhaps
be acceptable to MELANION:--
"VINCA. PERIWINKLE. (From _vincio_, to bind; its runners trailing
round other plants. Or to those who prefer a more interesting
association, we would intimate that of such was formed in ancient
times the bridal zone, which none but the bridegroom was
privileged to untie. In modern Italy it is said to be appropriated
to a far different usage, that of enwreathing deceased infants;
and is hence called _Fior di Morto_.--E.)"