Japanese pachysandra
pachysandra terminalis
Also known as: ["Japanese spurge","creeping box"]
Overview
A low-growing, evergreen perennial with glossy, dark green leaves, forming dense mats in shady areas.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Buxales |
| Family: | Buxaceae |
| Genus: | Pachysandra |
| Botanical Name: | Pachysandra terminalis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: ground cover in shaded garden beds or under trees
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy, well-draining soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead, diseased, or overcrowded stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates 2–4 hours of morning sun or dappled light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from harsh sun to prevent scorching; ideal for shaded garden beds or under trees.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; plant in shaded areas; monitor for sunburn signs.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water at the base to avoid foliage; allow top inch of soil to dry between waterings.
Soil
moist, well-drained, rich loamy soil
pH: Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; enrich with organic matter; ensure consistent moisture.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cold down to -20°F (-29°C) in USDA zones 4–8.
Protect from extreme heat; mulch in winter; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
annually in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize lightly; avoid nitrogen-heavy formulas; apply before new growth emerges.
Propagation
Methods
Division or stem cuttings; division is more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps.
- Cut stems just below a node.
- Plant in prepared medium.
- Maintain moisture and humidity.
Best Time: Early spring or early autumn when the plant is not in active growth.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%); indirect light; consistent temperatures around 65–70°F (18–21°C).
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but can help with root initiation.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in new location within a growing season.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, pruners, rooting hormone (optional), pots, propagation tray.
Quick Tips
Divide mature plants for faster results; keep cuttings moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Hand-pull unwanted stems; use clean pruners for larger cuts; shear lightly for shape if desired.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Hand pruners, gloves, clean knife.
Checklist
Remove dead foliage; thin overcrowded areas; sanitize tools between cuts; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; replant in fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot only when overcrowded or root-bound; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Check for root-bound roots; use fresh soil mix; ensure proper drainage; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; focus on the root zone; ensure even moisture distribution; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during the growing season; reduce frequency in winter; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or leaf mold for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting in extreme heat; yellowing or browning leaves in excessive cold; stunted growth in unsuitable temperatures.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn yellow or brown; root growth slows; can suffer frost damage in prolonged freezing without protection.
Solution: Mulch heavily in fall; protect from harsh winds; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or wilt; growth may slow; can suffer from heat stress in prolonged high temperatures.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water after fertilizing; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing; reduce or stop feeding in late summer/autumn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest Pachysandra terminalis. The saponins in the plant can cause discomfort, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Pachysandra terminalis may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins. Symptoms are typically mild and self-limiting but should be monitored.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPachysandra terminalis contains saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant quantities. The plant is generally considered non-toxic in small amounts but may cause discomfort if consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pachysandra terminalis invasive?
A: It can be invasive in some regions, particularly in shaded woodlands, but is generally well-behaved in garden settings.
Q: How fast does Japanese pachysandra spread?
A: It spreads moderately slowly via rhizomes, forming dense ground cover over time.
Q: Does Pachysandra terminalis require full sun?
A: No, it prefers partial to full shade and can suffer in direct sunlight.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Buxaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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