Japanese Spurge (Pachysandra terminalis): Elegant Evergreen Ground Cover for Shade

Quick Facts

• Evergreen shrubby ground cover
• Zones 1–10, 14–21, 31–43
• Full shade
• Regular water

Widely used as an elegant ground cover under trees, Japanese spurge forms an even, 10-inch-high carpet of shiny dark green leaves. Spikes of small white flowers appear in late spring or early summer. To add extra sparkle to heavily shaded spots, try the variety 'Variegata', with white leaf margins.

Plants spread at a moderate rate by underground stems and grow best in good, somewhat acid soil. Fertilize in early spring. Space 1 foot apart.