A Tale of Two Pachysandras

There are two pachysandras to consider when deciding on ground covers...

There are two pachysandras to consider when deciding on ground covers for deer control. Japanese pachysandra (Pachysandra terminalis) and its American relative, Allegheny spurge (Pachysandra procumbens), both grow to about 1-foot by 1-foot. In North America, the Japanese pachysandra is the more vigorous ground cover and will fill in an area faster. But these two pachysandras are equally effective in deer control.

Hardiness: Both of them can be grown as far north as USDA plant hardiness zone 5. In zones 7 to 10 they are evergreen ground cover plants.

Native vs. foreign: Allegheny spurge (Pachysandra procumbens) is a perennial groundcover native to the eastern U.S. from Kentucky to Florida. It is favored by lovers of U.S. native plants. Meanwhile, its counterpart hails from Asia.

Shade lovers: Both ground cover plants should be grown in soil rich in organic matter. Keep them well-watered, but also make sure the soil drains well. Although tolerant of sun, both pachysandras are usually grown in shady areas.

You might as well take advantage of their tolerance of shade since shady areas are often problematic in landscaping. In full shade, pachysandra's foliage is a more attractive, darker green. Its leaves get lighter, the more sun it gets. As fall approaches, the foliage of Allegheny spurge becomes dappled with silvery flecks. In spring, Allegheny spurge produces spiky, fragrant flowers ranging in color from white to pink. Japanese pachysandra has a white flower.

If you want more of them, you can take cuttings of the stems or leaves of both types of pachysandra. But since pachysandra spreads via rhizomes, it is easier just to divide it in the spring. Dig under your plants and inspect the rhizomes. Below each node, you will see roots feeding some vegetation above. Make your cuts at these nodes to divide the plants.