Japanese Spurge Plant Care
Pachysandra terminalis Siebold & Zucc.
Pachysandra terminalis, the Japanese pachysandra, carpet box or Japanese spurge, is a species of flowering plant in the boxwood family Buxaceae, native to Japan, Korea and China and introduced to eastern North America. It is a slow-growing, spreading evergreen perennial growing to 10 cm (4 in) tall by 60 cm (24 in) broad, with alternate, simple, glossy leaves, and creeping stems.
Every 7–14 days
Partial to full shade
50–75°F
40–70%
What Is the Japanese Spurge?
Japanese Spurge (Pachysandra terminalis) belongs to the Buxaceae family within the Pachysandra genus. Japanese Spurge is native to Japan, Korea and China and introduced to eastern North America. Japanese Spurge is also known as Japanese Pachysandra, Andromeda.
Japanese Spurge displays a low spreading groundcover growth habit, reaching up to 0.5 inches tall with a spread of approximately 2 inches. Japanese Spurge produces small white or greenish flowers in spikes.
Leaf size: approximately 2 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Japanese Spurge?
Pachysandra terminalis requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–14 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Japanese Spurge Need?
Japanese Spurge thrives in partial to full shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 100–500 lux. Avoid placing Japanese Spurge in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Partial to full shade
100–500 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Japanese Spurge Prefer?
Pachysandra terminalis grows best at temperatures between 50°F and 75°F. Japanese Spurge prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.
Temperature
50–75°F
Humidity
40–70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Japanese Spurge?
Moist, well-draining soil with high organic content. Good drainage is essential for Japanese Spurge to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Japanese Spurge?
Repot every 2-3 years in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Japanese Spurge?
Japanese Spurge can be propagated through division, stem cuttings.
Fertilizing
Every 8 months
During the growing season
Is the Japanese Spurge Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Japanese Spurge?
Japanese Spurge is susceptible to spider mites, scale insects. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Japanese Spurge Need?
Japanese Spurge grows outdoors in USDA Zone 4a – 8b. Native to Japan, Korea and China and introduced to eastern North America, Japanese Spurge is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Japanese Spurge as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 4a – 8b
Keep exploring plants
Japanese Spurge is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Pachysandra genus — compare its care with other Pachysandra species on PlantoScan.
Japanese Spurge tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
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