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Key characteristics

Family: Buxaceae
Height: 6 to 12 inches
Width: 12 to 18 inches
Flower color: Small, inconspicuous white flowers
Foliage color: Green background with creamy white edges
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light: Partial to full shade
Water: Regular
Maintenance: Low
Growing zone: USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 8
Wildlife: Shelter for small animals and insects

Groundcovers

Pachysandra terminalis ‘Silver Edge’

Variegated Japanese Spurge

Pachysandra terminalis 'Silver Edge' produces short spikes of small, fragrant white flowers in early spring, adding delicate seasonal interest before the foliage becomes the primary feature. Glossy, oval leaves are deep green with crisp silvery-white margins, forming a dense evergreen carpet that brightens shaded areas throughout the year. The variegated foliage remains attractive in every season, while slowly spreading stems create a uniform groundcover with rich texture and lasting ornamental appeal.

Light

Partial to full shade

Water

Regular

Bloom time

Late spring to early summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Woodland Gardens
Borders
Pollinator Gardens
Under Trees

Companion plants

Trilliums · Hellebores · Cyclamen · Autumn ferns · Primroses · Rodgersias

Design tip

Use this variegated evergreen groundcover to brighten shaded spaces beneath trees or along woodland paths with year-round color. Repeat light foliage near darker evergreens and layer contrasting leaf textures to create depth, rhythm, and a polished woodland composition.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)