General Culture:
Best grown in organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained soil in part shade to full shade. Foliage tends to bleach when grown in too much sun. For use as a ground cover, plant 6-12" apart. Spreads rapidly by underground stems to form large colonies. Avoid overhead watering and thin plants periodically to promote good air circulation, particularly if plants have experienced problems with leaf blight (see Problems section below).
Noteworthy Characteristics:
Japanese pachysandra is a shrubby, evergreen ground cover which grows 8-12" high and spreads by rhizomes to form a dense carpet of rich, dark green foliage. Oval leaves (2-4" long) appear primarily in whorls at the stem ends. Tiny white flowers in 1-2" long, terminal (hence the species name) spikes bloom in early spring. Flowers are not particularly showy, but on close inspection are quite attractive.
Problems:
Generally pest free. Leaf blight is a potentially serious problem which can necessitate remedial fungicide applications. Root rot, scale and mites can also be problems.
Uses:
Ground cover for shade areas. Excellent selection for shaded areas under shallow-rooted trees.
© Missouri Botanical
Garden, 2001-2009
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