Japanese spurge 'Green Sheen' Pachysandra terminalis 'Green Sheen'

Water

Japanese Spurge thrives best with consistent moisture, especially in well-drained soils. Generally, water the plant thoroughly once a week with approximately 1 gallon of water per 10 square feet. During periods of extreme heat or drought, watering frequency may need to increase, possibly to twice a week. Conversely, reduce the watering during cooler or rainy periods to prevent waterlogging. Always check the soil moisture before watering to ensure it’s not already saturated.

Light

Japanese Spurge is a shade-loving plant and does best in partial to full shade. It's ideal to place it in a spot that avoids direct afternoon sunlight, which can be too intense for this ground cover. The best lighting condition for Japanese Spurge is dappled light or areas shaded by trees or buildings.

Temperature

Japanese Spurge is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, generally surviving in a range from 0 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature for this ground cover is between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit where it thrives. Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 0 degrees Fahrenheit may damage the plant, while it can also struggle with heat stress above 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pruning

Japanese Spurge benefits from occasional pruning to remove any yellowed or damaged leaves and to rejuvenate the plant. Trimming it back in late winter or early spring before new growth begins can promote a denser habit and healthier foliage. Prune it lightly every 2-3 years or as needed to maintain its appearance and prevent overgrowth.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Japanese Spurge thrives best in a well-drained, rich organic soil mix with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. An ideal soil mixture can be created with equal parts of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite to ensure proper moisture retention and aeration. Adjust pH accordingly if necessary.

Repotting

Japanese Spurge is typically grown as a ground cover and rarely needs repotting. If grown in containers, repotting should be done every 2 to 3 years in spring or as the plant outgrows its pot.

Humidity & Misting

Japanese Spurge prefers moderate to high humidity levels but is quite adaptable to average humidity conditions found in most outdoor environments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide shade, water regularly, use humidifier if dry.

• Outdoor

  Plant in shade to part shade; keep soil moist.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

Pachysandra terminalis 'Green Sheen', commonly known as Japanese Spurge, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate or vegetative cuttings root in the soil during spring or early summer. The seedlings establish themselves and grow into a dense mat of evergreen foliage, thanks to its rhizomatous nature that allows for spreading. As the plants mature, they produce small, insignificant white flowers on spikes in early spring, which may develop into small, inedible fruits. Throughout the growing season, Green Sheen continues to spread and may become more glossy and vibrant. In fall and winter, growth slows down, and the plant remains mostly dormant, although it is an evergreen and retains its leaves during these colder months. Over time, as the plant becomes older, it will maintain its coverage through vegetative growth rather than relying on seed propagation.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to summer

• Propogation: Pachysandra terminalis 'Green Sheen', commonly known as Japanese Spurge, is propagated primarily through division, which is the most popular method. The ideal time for dividing this plant is in early spring or fall when the plant is not in active growth. To propagate by division, gently dig up a clump of the plant with a garden spade, ensuring to get a good portion of the roots. Then, using your hands or a knife, carefully separate the clump into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a healthy root system. These sections can be immediately replanted in prepared soil, placed at the same depth they were originally growing, and spaced about 6 to 12 inches (approx. 15 to 30 centimeters) apart to allow for spread and growth. Water the new plantings well and maintain consistent moisture until they become established. This method of propagation is efficient and helps to maintain the lush appearance and vigor of the ground cover.