Species

groundcoverN. America Native

Pixie Japanese Spurge

The Story

Plant Bio

Pachysandra terminalis 'Pixie' is a dwarf, evergreen, rhizomatous groundcover that forms a dense, glossy, dark green carpet of foliage.

This cultivar is distinguished by its particularly low-growing, tidy habit and its ability to thrive in shaded areas, making it ideal for underplanting and low-maintenance gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, evergreen groundcover with attractive foliage, ideal for shaded areas.

Suppresses weeds and prevents soil erosion in shaded gardens.

Supports local insects and provides habitat in shaded woodland settings.

SpeciesPachysandra procumbensJapanese Spurge

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

6 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Prefers consistently moist soil

Humidity

Suitable for average garden humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan and China

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested.

Bloom period

Early spring – Late spring

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or cuttings into soil in early spring.
Water thoroughly after planting to establish roots.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer.
Prune back after flowering to maintain shape and health.
Divide plants every 3–4 years in early spring or fall.

Pro Tip

Ensure well-draining, slightly acidic soil for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
Apply mulch to conserve moisture and control weeds
Prune to remove dead or damaged foliage

Don't

Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t expose to full sun which can scorch leaves
Refrain from heavy fertilization that may promote disease

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded groundcover for woodland gardensUnderplanting beneath treesBorder plant in shaded beds

Companion Plants

HostaFerns Astilbe Heuchera Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Pixie Japanese Spurge questions

What zones can Pixie Japanese Spurge grow in?

Pixie Japanese Spurge is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Pixie Japanese Spurge deer resistant?

Yes — Pixie Japanese Spurge is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Pixie Japanese Spurge bloom?

Pixie Japanese Spurge typically blooms in early spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Pixie Japanese Spurge need full sun?

Pixie Japanese Spurge does best in part shade.