Japanese Spurge

1 Gallon

$19.90

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Japanese Spurge

Pachysandra terminalis

Top-Performing Evergreen Groundcover for Shade • Fast-Spreading & Weed-Suppressing • Tolerates Dry Shade

$19.90

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Bay Area–Based Nursery

We specialize in plants grown and delivered in their original pots and soil.
Because of their size and weight, our plants are not suitable for long-distance shipping and are delivered locally to ensure health and quality.

While delivery is limited to our local service area, we’re happy to support garden design and plant selection remotely.

For local plant professionals, we’re always glad to connect and explore ways to support your customers.

Japanese Spurge is one of the best and most widely used evergreen groundcovers for dense shade. It forms a lush, uniform carpet of glossy, deep green leaves and produces small white flower spikes in spring. It is a fast-spreading, low-maintenance solution for difficult shady areas under trees or on north-facing slopes.

An extremely effective, fast-spreading groundcover that thrives in partial to full shade where grass won’t grow.
Forms a dense, weed-smothering mat of leathery, evergreen leaves about 6-10 inches tall.
Tolerates a range of soils but prefers moist, well-drained conditions. Drought tolerant once established.
Important Note: It can be aggressively spreading in optimal moist, shaded conditions and is listed as invasive in some eastern US forests. In the drier West, it is more manageable but should still be planted with consideration of its spread.

Knowing how we measure the size?

When browsing our plants, you may notice size terms such as Gallon, Multi, or Stand. These describe how a plant is grown, containerized, or structured at the time of sale — not just its height. Understanding these terms will help you choose the right plant for your space and expectations.

🌱 Gallon Size (Container Size)

Gallon refers to the size of the nursery container the plant is currently growing in (e.g. 1 Gallon, 5 Gallon, 15 Gallon).

A larger gallon size generally means:
- A more established root system
- A sturdier plant
- Faster visual impact after planting
Example:
- 5 Gallon: Ideal for residential gardens, easy to handle, good balance of value and maturity
- 15 Gallon: More mature, provides quicker results in the landscape

Note: Gallon size does not guarantee a specific height, as growth varies by species.

🌳 Multi (Multi-Trunk / Multi-Branch Form)

Multi indicates the plant has multiple trunks or main stems growing from the base.

Commonly used for:
- Ornamental trees
- Feature plants
- Japanese maples, olives, crepe myrtles, etc.
Why choose Multi:
- Fuller, more sculptural appearance
- Strong visual presence even at younger ages
- Popular for design-focused landscapes

🌲 Stand (Single-Trunk / Standard Form)

Stand (short for Standard) refers to a single, dominant trunk with a raised or naturally formed canopy.

Commonly used for:
- Shade trees
- Street trees
- Orchard and structural plantings
Why choose Stand:
- Clean, classic tree form
- Easier clearance for walkways and lawns
- Preferred for long-term structure and uniformity

🌿 Choosing the Right Size

If you want instant impact → larger Gallon, Multi form
If you want long-term structure → Stand form
If you want flexibility and value → mid-size Gallon containers

If you’re unsure which size or form fits your project, our team is happy to help you select the best option based on your space, timeline, and design goals.

Features:Foliage: Fan-shaped, glossy, deep green leaves with toothed margins; whorled at stem tips; evergreen.Flowers: Small white flowers in dense terminal spikes; blooms in early spring.Habit: Low-growing, spreading evergreen perennial groundcover
Mature Height: 8-12 inches
Mature Width: 12-18 inches (spreads indefinitely by rhizomes)
Growth Rate: Moderate
Light Needs: Partial to full shade
Key Advantages:Excellent shade tolerance.Dense weed-suppressing growth.Deer and rabbit resistant.Low maintenance.Erosion control on slopes
Landscape Uses:Under tree plantings.North-facing foundations.Slope and ground stabilization.Pathway edging in shaded areas.Lawn alternative in deep shade

Q: Is it invasive in California?
A: It is not currently listed as invasive in California, but it is a vigorous spreader. In the Bay Area’s drier climate, its spread is usually contained and manageable, especially compared to wetter regions. To control it, edge beds annually or use root barriers.

Q: Why are sections of my pachysandra turning brown and dying?
A: This is often due to Volutella blight, a fungal disease, or scale insect infestation. Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and remove diseased debris. In severe cases, fungicides or horticultural oil may be needed.