Species Japanese pachysandra
shiny, olive-green, ovate  leaves

Japanese pachysandra

Pachysandra terminalis

Japanese pachysandra (Pachysandra terminalis) is an evergreen groundcover that produces small, white, star-shaped flowers in the spring. Native to eastern Japan, it is grown for its emerald-green foliage that remains vibrant throughout all four seasons. This robust groundcover is perfect for adding texture and color to shady areas. It is easy to care for and low-maintenance, only needing regular pruning and mulching. It prefers moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate dry conditions. It is an ideal choice for borders and edging, mass planting, and containers. Japanese pachysandra is a versatile and attractive accent for any landscape.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 9

Flowers:

White Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Deep shade, Filtered shade, Part sun/part shade

Soil:

Acidic, Well-drained

Fruits:

purple Fruits In Spring Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Japanese pachysandra (Pachysandra terminalis) should be watered regularly to ensure optimal health. When first planted, it should be watered daily for the first 2 weeks. After that, it should be watered 2 to 3 times per week, allowing the top few inches of soil to dry out between each watering. As the plant establishes itself, it will need less frequent watering; during the summer months, it may need to be watered only once a week. During the dry season, it may need to be watered even more frequently, if the soil becomes dry.

sunlight

Japanese Pachysandra (Pachysandra terminalis) thrives in dappled light or part sun to shade. It prefers full shade in locations with high summer temperatures but can tolerate more sun in cooler climates. This plant also benefits from some morning sun to help combat fungal diseases and pests. When possible, it should receive at least 4 to 5 hours of sunlight each day, evenly split between morning and afternoon sunlight.

pruning

Japanese Pachysandra (Pachysandra terminalis) is best pruned in late winter or early spring, when it begins to show signs of new growth. Prune gently, removing up to 1-third of the old shoots and stems, keeping it well shaped and tidy. Make sure to remove any stems that are damaged, or crossed over and rubbing. For a more formal look, prune the plant back to 6" - 8" tall, removing some of the taller shoots. Pachysandra should not be pruned heavily as it relies on the outer rings of growth to protect the interior of the plant.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Pachysandra terminalis typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Japanese pachysandra typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Pachysandra terminalis typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map