Pachysandra procumbens aka Mountain Spurge

Pachysandra procumbens is known as Allegheny spurge or Allegheny pachysandra. This low perennial belongs to the boxwood family, Buxaceae. It comes from woods in the eastern and southeastern United States. Its range runs from Kentucky and West Virginia southward. It reaches Florida and Louisiana at the southern end. In North Carolina, it has state endangered status. This local status does not establish a global threat rating.

Plants form low mats as their underground rhizomes spread. Garden height is about 0.5–1 foot [0.15–0.30 metres]. Chicago Botanic Garden reports plants reaching 2 feet [0.61 metres]. Individual plants spread about 1–2 feet [0.30–0.61 metres]. Colonies can keep spreading beyond that width over time. Sources describe the growth rate as slow to moderate. Smooth brown stems can have a purple tint. The simple leaves cluster near the tips of shoots. Their shape ranges from oval to almost round. Teeth line the upper part of each leaf edge. Blue-green leaves may show silver, white, or purple patches. Leaves fall in colder zones but persist in warmer ones. Older leaves can look ragged by the middle of winter.

Small, scented flowers open from March through April. White or pinkish blooms form spikes above the low foliage. These spikes measure about 0.17–0.33 feet [0.05–0.10 metres] long. Bees and other pollinators visit the flowers in spring. Plants seldom produce many fruits, so fruit adds little interest. The small, dry capsules split open when they ripen. They contain dark brown to nearly black seeds.

Grow this plant in partial shade or deep shade. Filtered light beneath trees also suits it well. Strong sun can fade the color of its leaves. It prefers acid soil rich in organic matter. Keep the soil moist, but let excess water drain. Established plants can cope with periods of drought. Avoid heavy clay where drainage is poor. Most sources support USDA zones 5–9 for garden use. Some also report survival in zone 4 or its warmer parts. Divide plants or take cuttings to grow more. Control weeds while new plants become established.

Use it beneath trees, beside paths, or around shrubs. It also suits woodland gardens and shaded banks. Its spreading cover can help hold soil on slopes. Care needs are low once plants have settled in. Some sources report few serious pests, but problems can occur. Leaf blight may cause serious damage; roots and stems can rot. Watch for aphids, slugs, scale insects, and mites. Avoid overhead watering and thin crowded growth for airflow. PFAF records no known food or medicinal uses. It reports no known hazards, rather than confirmed safety.