Japanese Spurge
Pachysandra terminalis
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Groundcover
Height
6 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate, drought tolerant once established
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Japan and China
Toxicity
Toxic to pets if ingested.
The Story
Plant Bio
Pachysandra terminalis, commonly known as Japanese spurge, is a dense, evergreen groundcover with glossy, dark green leaves and small white flowers that bloom in early spring, creating a lush carpet-like appearance. This species is particularly valued for its vigorous, spreading growth habit and ability to thrive in deep shade with minimal maintenance.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-drained shade areas
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity
- Water regularly during first growing season
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape
- Divide in early spring or fall every 2-3 years
Pro Tip
Plant in shaded areas with rich, moist, well-drained soil for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
- Mulch to keep roots cool and moist
- Prune to shape after flowering
Don't
- Avoid excessive sunlight which can scorch leaves ❌
- Don’t let soil dry out completely
- Refrain from heavy fertilizing
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
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
Japanese Spurge questions
What zones can Japanese Spurge grow in?
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 Japanese Spurge deer resistant?
Yes — Japanese Spurge is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Japanese Spurge bloom?
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 Japanese Spurge need full sun?
Japanese Spurge does best in part shade.
Is Japanese Spurge drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Japanese Spurge handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Pachysandra to compare
Japanese Spurge Silveredge
Pachysandra terminalis 'Silveredge'
Japanese Spurge
Pachysandra procumbens 'Pixie'
Japanese Spurge Green Sheen
Pachysandra terminalis 'Green Sheen'
Japanese Spurge
Pachysandra terminalis 'Mix'
Japanese Spurge Variegata
Pachysandra terminalis 'Variegata'
Japanese Spurge
Pachysandra terminalis 'Shiny'
Keep exploring
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Grow Japanese Spurge 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.
