Pachysandra terminalis, commonly known as Japanese Pachysandra, is a low-growing evergreen groundcover valued for its dense, mat-forming habit and tolerance of deep shade. Reaching 6 to 12 inches tall, it spreads by underground rhizomes to quickly fill in bare, shaded areas with glossy, dark green foliage. Small, white flower spikes appear in early spring but are mostly hidden by the leaves. Drought-tolerant once established and deer-resistant, Japanese Pachysandra is often used under trees, along woodland edges, or in shady foundation beds where turf or other plants struggle.

Why choose Japanese Pachysandra

Shade-loving groundcover: Thrives where grass and sun-loving plants won’t

Evergreen coverage: Provides year-round texture and color

Low maintenance: Spreads steadily without much care once established

Cultivating tips

Sun exposure: Best in full to part shade; avoid direct afternoon sun

Soil needs: Prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soils but adapts to dry shade

Maintenance: Very low—may require edging to keep contained

Designs for your garden

Understory planting: Ideal beneath trees and large shrubs

Woodland borders: Fills in shady spaces with clean foliage

Foundation plantings: Works well around buildings in low-light areas

Ecological benefits

Erosion control: Dense roots help hold soil on slopes and under trees

Low water needs: Tolerates dry shade after establishment

Deer-resistant: Rarely browsed

Similar native alternatives

Carex appalachia – Appalachian Sedge
A fine-textured, semi-evergreen native sedge perfect for dry shade and woodland gardens.

Carex stricta – Tussock Sedgehttps:
This semi-evergreen native sedge forms elegant clumps ideal for moist, low-lying areas and rain gardens.

Juncus tenuis – Path Rush
A tough, semi-evergreen native rush that thrives in compacted soils and tolerates foot traffic.