groundcover

Japanese Spurge

Pachysandra terminalis 'Mix'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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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

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Pachysandra terminalis, commonly known as Japanese spurge, is an evergreen groundcover with dense, leathery foliage and small white flowers that bloom in early spring, forming a lush, mat-like habit. The 'Mix' cultivar offers a varied display of foliage shades and subtle flower differences, enhancing landscape texture and color continuity throughout the year.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

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

Suppresses weeds and stabilizes soil on slopes.

Supports local pollinators by providing habitat and cover.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or cuttings into moist soil in early spring
Keep soil consistently moist during first 6 weeks
Place in partial shade for best growth
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Water regularly during dry periods
Divide plants every 2-3 years to maintain vigor

Pro Tip

Ensure well-draining, rich soil and avoid overwatering

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Apply mulch to conserve moisture
Divide in early spring or fall

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t plant in full sun, it prefers shade
Refrain from using heavy fertilizers

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded garden groundcoverUrban shady borderErosion control on slopes

Companion Plants

Hosta Ferns Astilbe Japanese painted fern Heuchera

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.