
Green Carpet Japanese Spurge
Pachysandra terminalis 'Green Carpet'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
8 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate, prefers consistently moist soil
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Japan, China
Toxicity
All parts are toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Pachysandra terminalis 'Green Carpet' is a low-growing, evergreen perennial with dense, glossy green foliage that forms a lush ground cover. It produces small white flowers in early spring. This cultivar is valued for its vigorous spreading habit and excellent shade tolerance, making it ideal for covering shaded garden areas with minimal maintenance.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells.
- Mist cuttings frequently to maintain high humidity and encourage root growth.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer for healthy growth.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune lightly after flowering to shape and remove dead or damaged stems.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining, fertile soil and provide partial to full shade for optimal growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently, especially during dry periods 🌱
- Mulch annually to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not expose to full sun, as it prefers shade or partial shade
- Refrain from heavy fertilization that can cause leggy growth
- Avoid disturbing roots when transplanting
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Green Carpet Japanese Spurge questions
What zones can Green Carpet Japanese Spurge grow in?
Green Carpet Japanese Spurge is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Green Carpet Japanese Spurge deer resistant?
Yes — Green Carpet Japanese Spurge is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Green Carpet Japanese Spurge bloom?
Green Carpet Japanese Spurge typically blooms in early spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Green Carpet Japanese Spurge need full sun?
Green Carpet Japanese Spurge does best in part shade.
Is Green Carpet Japanese Spurge drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Green Carpet Japanese Spurge handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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