About
A low-growing evergreen sub-shrub, to around 30cm high, with a creeping habit and glossy, coarsely toothed intense green leaves. Spikes of tiny aromatic white flowers are produced from the leaf axils in spring, followed by pink berries with recognisable horn-like styles.
About the genus
Pachysandra are mat-forming evergreen perennials or subshrubs with creeping stems and short upright branches bearing leathery leaves clustered at the tips, and erect spikes of small flowers, the males with prominent white stamens
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy, Spreading branched
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesHerbaceous borders, cottage gardens, cutting.
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationTolerant of all but very dry soils. Grow in full or part shade; a useful ground cover for shady corners or woodland
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed, by division in spring, or by softwood cuttings in early summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free