Plant Detail

Pachysandra terminalis |Green Carpet|

Pachysandra terminalis, commonly called Japanese pachysandra, is a shrubby, evergreen ground cover that grows 8-12" high and spreads by rhizomes to form a dense carpet of rich, dark green foliage. Oval leaves (2-4" long) appear primarily in whorls at the stem ends. Tiny white flowers in 1-2" long, terminal (hence the species name) spikes bloom in early spring. Flowers are not particularly showy, but on close inspection are quite attractive.

Genus's name comes from the Greek words pachys meaning thick and aner or Andros meaning stamen concerning the thickened white filaments.

  • Forms a mat up to 6-8 in. tall (15-20 cm) and 12-18 in. wide (30-45 cm).
  • A part shade to full shade lover, it is best grown in rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils. This plant is not fussy about soils and tolerates a wide range of conditions. Soils shouldn't be allowed to dry out. Clay soil, dry soil, and drought tolerant! Highly tolerant of urban pollution too.
  • Perfect for shade gardens, as a groundcover, or underplanting shrubs. Great for banks and slopes, erosion control, and woodland gardens.
  • A hardy, low-maintenance and forgiving perennial, it is also deer and rabbit resistant. 
  • Virtually pest-free and disease free. May be attacked by slugs and snails.

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Requirement
Hardiness 4,5,6,7,8
Heat Zones 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8
Climate Zones 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20
Plant Type Perennials, Shrubs
Plant Family Buxaceae
Exposure Partial Sun, Shade
Season of Interest Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter, Early Spring, Mid Spring, Late Spring, Early Summer, Mid Summer, Late Summer
Height 6' - 7'
Spread 1' - 2'
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Characteristics Clay Soil Tolerant, Deer Tolerant, Drought Tolerant, Rabbit Tolerant, Dry Soil Tolerant
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Coastal Garden, Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow
Planting Place Banks and Slopes, Ground Covers, Underplanting Roses and Shrubs