Pachysandra (Japanese Spurge)

Pachysandra terminalis is a favorite evergreen ground cover that grows well in garden areas where little else will grow, such as under trees, shady areas, and locations with poor quality or highly acidic soil. It grows 6 to 8 inches high (sometimes even 10 inches) and spreads by underground rhizomes that form a dense carpet of rich, dark green foliage.  In the spring, tiny white, fragrant flower spikes appear above the dark green leaves. Although the flowers are not super showy, they are a welcome signal that warmer weather is arriving. Pachysandra is dense and evergreen ground cover. Its showy flowers are a nice contrast to the dark green foliage. Pachysandra works well to keep down weeds due to its dense growth habit. Japanese Pachysandra grows well in shaded or part-sun garden areas where other plants or grass may struggle. This low-maintenance ground cover can also help to prevent soil erosion. Pachysandra makes an excellent planting partner under taller trees in any landscape. Gardeners can also use Pachysandra to avoid damage to the trunks of trees by creating a "no mow" zone between the tree and lawn equipment.