Pachysandra procumbens

2003 – Allegheny Spurge

Allegheny spurge, our native pachysandra, has many exceptional features that set it apart from the more familiar Asian pachysandras.  One of the main differences can be seen in the foliage; it has mottled, rounded, gray-green leaves that are held in loose whorls.  The leaves are generally evergreen, but may turn purplish and may exhibit some dieback in harsh winters.  In early spring, the plants form dense spikes of pinkish-white flowers.

Allegheny spurge is generally disease and pest resistant, clump-forming rather than spreading, and is a great ground cover for part to full shade in organic, moist, well-drained soil.