Pachysandra terminalis 'Variegata'
groundcover

Japanese Spurge Variegata

Pachysandra terminalis 'Variegata'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

8 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan, Korea

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested.

The Story

Plant Bio

Pachysandra terminalis 'Variegata' is a evergreen ground cover with dense, spreading stems and variegated ovate leaves featuring creamy-white margins, producing small white flowers in early spring. This cultivar is highly valued for its striking variegated foliage that adds brightness and texture to shaded garden areas, and it is particularly tolerant of low light and poor soils.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides evergreen foliage with attractive variegation, adding visual interest year-round.
Practical UsesSuppresses weeds in shaded areas, requiring minimal maintenance.
Ecological BenefitsSupports shade-loving insects and provides ground cover in shaded gardens.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or cuttings into moist soil in early spring.
  2. Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist for 6 weeks.
  3. Provide filtered shade during hot summer days.
  4. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  5. Divide plants every 2-3 years in early spring.
  6. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining, moist soil and avoid overwatering.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
  • Mulch to conserve moisture
  • Prune lightly after flowering

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don’t expose to full sun in hot climates ❌
  • Refrain from heavy fertilization

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Plant
Propagate
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded border with variegated foliageGroundcover under treesLow-maintenance shaded garden edge

Companion Plants

Hosta Ferns Heuchera Astilbe Japanese Painted Fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Japanese Spurge Variegata questions

What zones can Japanese Spurge Variegata grow in?

Japanese Spurge Variegata 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 Japanese Spurge Variegata deer resistant?

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

When does Japanese Spurge Variegata bloom?

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

Does Japanese Spurge Variegata need full sun?

Japanese Spurge Variegata does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Japanese Spurge Variegata with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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