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Description
Pachysandra Terminalis, commonly known as Japanese Spurge, is a shade-loving perennial ground cover plant. It belongs to the boxwood family and is native to Japan and China. It is a popular choice for gardeners due to its evergreen foliage and ability to thrive in shady areas.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Buxales |
| Family | Buxaceae |
| Genus | Pachysandra |
Appearance
Pachysandra Terminalis has glossy, dark green, oval-shaped leaves that grow in a rosette pattern. The leaves are about 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The plant can grow up to 6-12 inches tall and spreads up to 2-3 feet wide. It produces small, white, sweet-smelling flowers in early spring. The flowers turn into small berries in late summer.
Care Guide
Water: Pachysandra Terminalis prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in winter.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and midsummer.
Soil: Pachysandra Terminalis prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline.
Sunlight: Pachysandra Terminalis thrives in full shade to partial shade. It can tolerate some morning sun but should be protected from hot afternoon sun.
Hardiness Zones: Pachysandra Terminalis is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pachysandra Terminalis is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and root rot. Pests that can affect the plant include scale insects and spider mites.
Habitat
Pachysandra Terminalis is native to Japan and China and grows in shady, woodland areas. It is often used as a ground cover plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Pachysandra Terminalis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Pachysandra Terminalis can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage and are planted in well-draining soil.
Q: Can Pachysandra Terminalis tolerate foot traffic?
A: Yes, Pachysandra Terminalis can tolerate some foot traffic but should not be used in high traffic areas.
Q: When is the best time to plant Pachysandra Terminalis?
A: The best time to plant Pachysandra Terminalis is in early spring or fall.
Q: How often should Pachysandra Terminalis be pruned?
A: Pachysandra Terminalis does not require regular pruning but can be trimmed in early spring to shape the plant.
Related Plants
- Pachysandra Procumbens
- Boxwood (Buxus)
- Holly (Ilex)
- Sweet Woodruff (Galium odoratum)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Pachysandra terminalis. Retrieved February 12, 2021, from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c566
- University of Illinois Extension. (n.d.). Pachysandra. Retrieved February 12, 2021, from https://web.extension.illinois.edu/hosta/plant_detail.cfm?PlantID=363
- Garden Design Magazine. (2020, March 25). Pachysandra Terminalis. Retrieved February 12, 2021, from https://www.gardendesign.com/plants/pachysandra-terminalis.html
