Japanese Spurge

Japanese Spurge (Pachysandra terminalis)

Japanese Spurge (Pachysandra terminalis) is a classic evergreen groundcover valued for its dense foliage, shade tolerance, and ability to suppress weeds in tough garden areas. With glossy green leaves and a carpet-forming habit, this low-maintenance plant is ideal for creating a uniform, year-round ground layer beneath trees, along shaded walkways, or on slopes where erosion control is needed.

Distinctive Features

Pachysandra terminalis spreads by underground rhizomes to form a thick, mat-like cover of dark green, slightly toothed leaves. In early spring, it produces small white flower spikes that rise just above the foliage. Although the blooms are modest, the plant�s lush evergreen leaves provide year-round color and structure. Its uniform height and spreading habit make it an effective focal point for shaded areas that need reliable coverage and low visual clutter.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial to full shade
• Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil
• Water: Moderate; appreciates consistent moisture, especially in the first year
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Dense evergreen foliage creates a clean, unified look in shady beds
• Groundcover: Quickly fills in under trees, shrubs, and slopes
• Shade Gardens: Performs reliably where sun-loving plants struggle
• Path Edging: Offers neat, low borders for shaded walkways
• Erosion Control: Spreading roots stabilize soil on slopes and embankments

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Keep consistently moist during establishment; drought tolerant once established
• Pruning: Shear or thin as needed in spring to refresh foliage and control spread
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring
• Mulching: Use mulch to suppress weeds and help retain moisture
• Deer Resistance: Foliage is typically avoided by deer

Why Choose Japanese Spurge?

• Evergreen Coverage: Provides year-round texture and green color
• Shade Tolerance: Thrives in low-light areas where turf and perennials fail
• Low Maintenance: Minimal care once established
• Uniform Appearance: Ideal for large areas or formal shaded plantings
• Focal Point: Clean, glossy foliage creates order and definition in shaded spaces

Pachysandra terminalis offers timeless utility and low-maintenance appeal for shaded gardens, making it a go-to solution for coverage, erosion control, and evergreen consistency in challenging locations.