Mountain-spurge
Pachysandra procumbens
Last reviewed: June 2026
Pachysandra procumbens is a native groundcover found in southeastern states from Florida to West Virginia. This mountain spurge blooms with fragrant white flower spikes in early spring from March to May.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–12" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
AL, CT, FL, GA and 7 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Mountain spurge is a low-growing native groundcover that forms neat spreading colonies in shaded areas. It produces small white flower spikes in early spring and maintains attractive foliage through most of the year, making it an excellent alternative to invasive pachysandra.
Growing Mountain-spurge
Grow Mountain-spurge in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 6 to 12 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Mountain-spurge is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.
- May appear sparse in winter as semi-evergreen foliage thins
Wildlife value
The spring flowers provide nectar for early-season bees and beetles when few other plants are blooming. Its native status makes it more valuable to local wildlife than non-native groundcover alternatives.
Common questions
- Where does Pachysandra procumbens naturally grow?
- Mountain spurge is native to the southeastern United States, ranging from Florida north to Kentucky and West Virginia, and west to Louisiana.
- When does mountain spurge bloom?
- Pachysandra procumbens produces its distinctive white flower spikes from March through May, typically before the leaves fully emerge.
- What pollinators visit mountain spurge flowers?
- The early spring blooms of Pachysandra procumbens attract bees and beetles, providing an important nectar source when few other plants are flowering.
- How is mountain spurge different from Japanese pachysandra?
- Unlike the common non-native Pachysandra terminalis, mountain spurge is native to North America, has mottled leaves, and produces more conspicuous fragrant flowers in spring.
- Is Mountain-spurge HOA-friendly?
- Mountain-spurge is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Mountain-spurge? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz