30 Gorgeous Ground Cover Plants To Enrich Your Garden

Ground cover plants often go unnoticed in gardens, but their benefits extend far beyond mere aesthetics. Not only do they add visual interest to overlooked areas, but they also play a crucial role in reducing maintenance by suppressing weeds and eliminating the need for mowing when used as an alternative to grass. Additionally, low-growing plants can enrich soil and improve its moisture-retaining properties.

Beyond these practical advantages, many ground cover varieties attract pollinators, benefiting your entire garden ecosystem. Some are even edible or possess medicinal properties, making them a valuable addition to any garden. The best part? Most ground covers require minimal upkeep. So, what exactly is a ground cover plant? Essentially, they’re plants that spread out and grow low along the ground.

Perennials, annuals, evergreens, sun-lovers, shade-lovers – you name it, there’s a ground cover type to suit. They can range from just a few inches tall to over a foot in height, with some boasting vibrant blooms while others offer striking foliage. Ground covers are perfect for areas where traditional grass won’t thrive, such as heavily shaded or extremely hot spots. They’re also ideal for preventing erosion on hillsides. Ultimately, ground cover plants are an excellent addition to any garden.

The key is finding the right one for your specific space and needs.

Types of ground cover plants

Types of ground cover plants

When it comes to selecting the perfect ground cover plants for your garden, there are several factors to consider. You’ll want to choose varieties that require minimal maintenance and won’t become invasive. Fortunately, there’s a wide range of options to suit different needs and preferences. One popular option is perennials, which return year after year to provide visual interest, suppress weeds, and retain moisture.

They’re ideal for low-maintenance gardens where you want a consistent look without having to replant every season. For a winter garden that remains attractive even in the dead of winter, evergreen ground covers are the way to go. These plants provide year-round coverage with minimal upkeep, making them perfect for those who want to enjoy their outdoor space during all seasons.

On the other hand, annuals are great for those who like to mix things up or don’t want to commit to a specific plant for too long. They often boast vibrant blooms at some point during their lifespan, but you’ll need to replant them every year – although some varieties can self-sow and come back on their own. Herbs like mint or thyme are also excellent ground cover options, offering not only a pop of color but also edible leaves, medicinal properties, and fragrant scents.

With so many types to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your garden’s unique needs.

Cautions

When selecting a ground cover plant, it’s essential to consider various factors before making a decision. The suitability of a particular species depends on the specific conditions of your garden, including climate and soil type. Don’t be swayed by initial appearances; what works in one area may not translate well to another. For instance, some ground covers are better suited for low-traffic zones, while others can tolerate heavy footfall.

If you’re seeking a replacement for a grassy lawn, choose a species that’s indifferent to being walked upon. Additionally, be mindful of invasive varieties that can quickly overrun the surrounding area. Certain creeping or spreading plants have no qualms about dominating their surroundings, so ensure you’re prepared to control their spread if necessary. A little patience is also essential when introducing a new ground cover; don’t expect overnight results.

In reality, plants require time to establish themselves and spread evenly. Finally, temper your expectations by understanding that some species may necessitate special care or management to prevent unwanted consequences. By doing so, you’ll be better equipped to choose the right ground cover for your unique situation.

Ground Cover Plants

Moss rose (Portulaca grandiflora)

Moss rose (Portulaca grandiflora)

For those seeking a visually appealing substitute for traditional grass in scorching sunny spots, moss rose is an exemplary choice. This low-maintenance groundcover thrives in arid conditions, making it perfect for areas that receive intense sunlight. Notably, moss rose has a unique ability to self-seed abundantly, ensuring its return the following year.

Creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum)

Creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum)

Creeping thyme is a fantastic choice for sloped landscaping, as its hardy nature allows it to thrive in cascading formations that flow down rock faces and slopes like a gentle stream. When summer arrives, this lovely herb produces beautiful blooms that attract bees and butterflies. While it’s well-suited to full sun conditions, it’s not ideal for areas with heavy foot traffic, making it a poor substitute for traditional lawn grass.

On the other hand, creeping thyme is quite happy in containers and offers the added benefit of being deer- and rabbit-resistant, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners.

Dwarf mondo grass (Ophiopogon japonicus)

Dwarf mondo grass (Ophiopogon japonicus)

Dwarf mondo grass is a charming addition to shaded areas, originating from various parts of Asia. Its evergreen nature allows it to thrive year-round in certain regions. When selecting this type of grass for your outdoor space, consider the following: it excels in shaded spots, but may not be suitable as an annual in colder climates. The spread of each clump can vary depending on the specific variety; if you’re looking to fill gaps, you might need to supplement with additional plants.

Barrenwort (Epimedium)

Barrenwort (Epimedium)

Barrenwort, also known as bishop’s hat, is a resilient and adaptable evergreen that thrives as a ground cover. Once established, it can survive with minimal watering, but it does best in moist soil conditions. While it can tolerate some drought, extreme heat will cause its leaves to wilt. Beyond its ability to form a lush carpet, barrenwort also holds medicinal properties, making it an attractive addition to any garden or landscaping project.

Golden creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia ‘Aurea’)

Golden creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia ‘Aurea’)

Golden creeping Jenny (Auricularia sp.) is an evergreen delight that thrives in well-lit spaces. Its vibrant lime-green hue adds a pop of color to hanging baskets, balcony railings, or as a ground cover. This versatile plant can tolerate some shade, but will truly flourish in full sun. When it comes to care, be mindful not to let the soil dry out completely.

As an added bonus, creeping Jenny’s yellow petals will deepen in hue with increased sunlight exposure, creating a stunning display of color.

Sweet woodruff (Galium odoratum)

Sweet woodruff (Galium odoratum)

Sweet woodruff is a versatile herb that boasts a range of uses beyond its attractive appearance. Its sweet aroma and subtle vanilla flavor make it an appealing addition to any garden or culinary venture. When it comes to growing conditions, sweet woodruff is adaptable yet particular. It flourishes in shady areas, where it can absorb moisture through the soil. While it can tolerate some drought, it will perform best in environments with consistent moisture levels.

One of its defining characteristics is its rapid spread, making careful consideration essential when planting. To keep this herb contained, consider incorporating deep edging or other containment measures to prevent it from overtaking nearby plants. On the plus side, sweet woodruff is surprisingly easy to transplant, allowing for quick and effortless relocation.

I’ve personally transplanted a clump with minimal soil preparation, only to watch it spread dramatically over the course of a few months.

Phlox (Phlox)

Phlox (Phlox)

Creeping phlox, a stunning ground cover, boasts a vibrant carpet of purple flowers that can add a pop of color to any landscape. Its allure extends beyond its aesthetic appeal, as it also attracts pollinators, making it a great choice for gardeners seeking to support local wildlife. When it comes to growing conditions, creeping phlox thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, doing best when the soil is not overly soggy.

At just six inches tall or less, this low-growing ground cover plant won’t overwhelm its surroundings, making it an excellent option for gardeners looking to add a touch of elegance without sacrificing space.

Sedum (Sedum)

Sedum (Sedum)

Sedum stands out as a top choice for ground cover plants in my book. This versatile plant boasts an array of attractive leaves and flowers, with numerous varieties to suit every gardener’s taste. While it thrives in the warm glow of full sun, sedum is not a fan of poorly drained soil – so be sure to provide it with well-draining terrain. On the plus side, this low-maintenance ground cover is perfect for inhospitable locations where other plants might struggle to survive.

I’ve had great success planting sedum in rock-filled beds next to my front porch, where its hardiness has allowed it to flourish despite the challenging conditions. Not only does it add a touch of beauty to these often-neglected areas, but it’s also an effective tool for controlling soil erosion. Overall, sedum is a dependable and easy-to-grow option that’s well worth considering for your garden.

Corsican mint (Mentha requienii)

Corsican mint (Mentha requienii)

Corsican mint, like other mint varieties, has the potential to be invasive. However, its low-growing habit makes it an excellent choice for filling gaps between stones or low-traffic areas. This mint thrives in full sun, but its growth is stunted in dry environments, making drought conditions a major drawback. Despite being able to tolerate light frosts, Corsican mint’s adaptability allows it to readily self-seed and spread, making it a hardy ground cover that can thrive even in harsh climates.

Calgary carpet juniper (Juniperus sabina ‘Monna’)

Calgary carpet juniper (Juniperus sabina ‘Monna’)

A lush and resilient green ground cover that thrives in a variety of conditions, this species boasts exceptional cold hardiness, making it an ideal choice for those residing in cooler climates. To maximize its performance, plant it in full sun where it can absorb the warm rays to fuel its growth. However, be mindful of waterlogged soil as it is not tolerant of such conditions.

Interestingly, this ground cover also exhibits a remarkable ability to adapt to shade, offering homeowners an additional layer of versatility when selecting plants for their outdoor spaces.

Pearlwort Irish moss (Sagina subulata)

Pearlwort Irish moss (Sagina subulata)

This unique ground cover features delicate white flowers scattered across its surface, with a texture that closely resembles moss. Its growth habit is compact and sprawling, staying low to the ground. For optimal blooming, plant this species in full sun, where it will thrive. However, be mindful of intense heat, as it can struggle to cope with such conditions.

Bugleweed (Ajuga)

Bugleweed (Ajuga)

This striking creeper boasts vibrant indigo blooms that steal the show, and its dark green leaves are a sight to behold even when it’s not in flower. The plant’s versatility is one of its greatest charms – it can thrive in shade or bask in the sun with equal ease.

It’s worth noting that this creeper is surprisingly resilient, able to withstand a wide range of conditions except for one crucial exception: arid soil.

As you might expect from a member of the mint family, this plant does have some specific needs. To keep it under control and prevent it from spreading too aggressively, you’ll need to provide some care and attention.

Hens and chicks (Sempervivum)

Hens and chicks (Sempervivum)

I have a special fondness for succulents, and one type that stands out is Hens and Chicks. These low-maintenance perennials are perfect for gardeners of all levels, as they thrive in full sun and can survive even the chilliest temperatures. What’s more, they’re not aggressive spreaders, making them a great choice for rock gardens or other small spaces.

While Hens and Chicks do have specific preferences, it’s relatively easy to meet their needs.

They appreciate well-draining soil – anything too wet can be detrimental – but with the right conditions, they’ll reward you with vibrant displays of color. The real charm of these succulents lies in their unique characteristics: as the plants spread, new ‘chick’ succulents will grow around the older, larger ‘hens’, creating a beautiful and dynamic arrangement.

Lamb’s ear (Stachys byzantina)

Lamb’s ear (Stachys byzantina)

Lamb’s ear is an ideal ground cover for areas with rocky or poor soil conditions. If you have a spot in your yard where plants tend to struggle, consider this versatile option. One of the benefits of lamb’s ear is its adaptability to various soil types – it will thrive in nearly all environments. However, it does have one limitation: waterlogged areas can be detrimental to its growth. On the other hand, its soft, silvery leaves make a unique and attractive textural addition to rock gardens.

Woolly yarrow (Achillea tomentosa)

Woolly yarrow (Achillea tomentosa)

If you’re looking to add a pop of bright yellow color to your garden, this particular ground cover is an excellent option – it’s also great for attracting pollinators! It thrives in full sun, making it perfect for areas that receive plenty of direct sunlight. However, it’s not as forgiving when it comes to humidity and extreme heat, so be sure to provide it with well-draining soil if you live in a hot and humid climate.

Another thing to keep in mind is that this ground cover grows and spreads slowly, making it more suitable for those who are willing to wait for the desired results. If you’re looking for a quick fix, you might want to consider another option.

Crown vetch (Securigera varia)

Crown vetch (Securigera varia)

This versatile ground cover boasts fern-like foliage and is occasionally employed in large-scale agricultural applications to mitigate erosion and serve as forage for livestock. Notably, it exhibits a strong affinity for well-watered soil conditions. However, its growth is hindered by alkaline soil environments. Furthermore, this cold-hardy plant has the potential to become invasive if not properly monitored, making it essential to keep a watchful eye on its propagation.

Ice plant (Aizoaceae)

Ice plant (Aizoaceae)

The ice plant is a versatile ground cover that doubles as an ornamental feature, boasting charming pinkish-purple flowers that add a pop of color to any landscaping design. This hardy perennial thrives in sunny areas but can also tolerate partial shade. However, it’s essential to note that it doesn’t perform well in wet, waterlogged soil conditions. What’s more, the name ‘ice plant’ is somewhat misleading, as these plants are surprisingly cold-tolerant.

They’re a great option for gardeners looking for a low-maintenance yet visually appealing addition to their outdoor spaces.

Wild ginger (Asarum caudatum)

Wild ginger (Asarum caudatum)

Wild ginger (Asarum canadense) boasts striking heart-shaped leaves that maintain their appeal even when it’s not in bloom. Its broad, spreading habit makes it a great choice for shaded areas, where it can thrive without direct sunlight.

Some key considerations to keep in mind include:
Likes: Shaded spots with low light conditions.
Dislikes: Wet soil, which can lead to root rot and other issues. Despite its name, wild ginger is not a member of the same plant family as edible ginger.

However, it does share a similar aroma when you dig into the roots. This characteristic has led some to speculate about a potential culinary use for wild ginger, but it’s primarily valued for its ornamental appeal.

Ribbon grass (Phalaris arundinacea)

Ribbon grass (Phalaris arundinacea)

While regular lawn grass may dominate North American landscapes, ribbon grass offers a more visually appealing alternative. This ornamental-type grass boasts an attractive appearance that sets it apart from its more common counterpart. When it comes to growing conditions, ribbon grass has some specific preferences. It thrives in well-drained soil, which is essential for its health and stability. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when planting this type of grass.

For one, be cautious not to leave it exposed to full sun, as this can cause the leaves to burn. Additionally, ribbon grass has the potential to be invasive, so be mindful of its growth habits and take steps to prevent unwanted spreading.

Pennywort (Centella asiatica)

Pennywort (Centella asiatica)

Pennywort, also known as dollarweed, is often regarded as an unwanted weed. However, despite its reputation, this plant boasts a certain charm. Its adaptability to thrive in wet, moist soil makes it an attractive choice for areas where other ground covers struggle to survive. On the flip side, pennywort’s rapid spread can be a concern, particularly in dry environments where control is crucial.

Nevertheless, for regions plagued by waterlogged soil, this plant offers a potential solution – albeit one that requires careful consideration.

Basket of gold (Aurinia saxatilis)

Basket of gold (Aurinia saxatilis)

The Basket of Gold perennial boasts a stunning display of golden blooms that persist for approximately four to six weeks during the spring season. When it’s not in bloom, its attractive grey-green foliage forms a beautiful mound. This low-growing ground cover thrives in sandy, dry conditions and full sun. In contrast, it dislikes overly moist soil. One notable characteristic is its evergreen nature, allowing it to tolerate drought with ease.

Blue cornflower (Centaurea montana)

Blue cornflower (Centaurea montana)

The Bachelor’s Button, also known as Cornflower, is a slightly taller ground cover plant that can adjust its height based on the amount of light it receives. During the summer months, it produces charming, shaggy purple blooms. This adaptable plant thrives in full shade or partial sun and is surprisingly forgiving when it comes to soil and moisture levels, tolerating a wide range of conditions.

Key facts:
Likes: Full shade or partial sun, variety of soils, and moisture levels.

Dislikes: Doesn’t transplant well; sow seeds directly.
Additional characteristics: Handles a range of conditions, including deadheading the blossoms to encourage a second bloom.

Evergreen candytuft (Iberis sempervirens)

Evergreen candytuft (Iberis sempervirens)

This charming ground cover boasts an abundance of cheerful white blooms during early spring, making it a stunning addition to rock gardens where its delicate branches can cascade down rocks in a picturesque display. Despite its dainty appearance, this plant is surprisingly resilient and thrives in sunny or partially shaded conditions, performing admirably even in dry areas.

While it has a few specific preferences, this ground cover doesn’t fare well in heavy clay soil or excessive moisture, where wet roots can be detrimental to its health. Nonetheless, with the right environment, this lovely plant is sure to bring joy and vibrancy to any outdoor space.

Creeping germander (Teucrium aroanium)

Creeping germander (Teucrium aroanium)

Creeping germander is a summer-blooming perennial that produces vibrant purple flowers with a sweet, honey-like scent for over four weeks. This low-maintenance plant thrives in hot, dry spots, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping enthusiasts. Its drought tolerance and resistance to deer, rabbit, and pests make it a popular pick among gardeners.

While it can’t handle overly moist soil, creeping germander excels in well-draining conditions, providing a pop of color and attracting bees to the yard.

Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster)

Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster)

Cotoneaster is a versatile evergreen that brings vibrancy to winter landscapes with its striking red berries, which attract birds and deer alike. This low-maintenance plant thrives in full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil, making it an ideal addition to any garden. While it’s generally carefree, one notable exception is the need for a well-aerated environment – boggy conditions should be avoided. In terms of variety, cotoneasters can grow upright or spread out as creeping forms.

A word of caution: the berries are toxic if ingested, although my own flock of chickens seemed to relish them. In addition to its showy fruit, this plant also produces delicate white blooms in the spring, adding an extra layer of charm.

Bunchberry (Cornus canadensis)

Bunchberry (Cornus canadensis)

Creeping dogwood, also known as Cornus sericea, is a stunning perennial that boasts striking features such as red berries and white flowers. What’s more, it thrives in shaded environments, making it an ideal addition to any garden seeking dappled light. One of its most notable characteristics is its ability to form a dense, dark carpet on rich, loamy soil, creating a lush and inviting atmosphere. However, this plant does have its limitations – it struggles with drought and intense sunlight.

On the flip side, it’s highly resilient and has adapted to its native North American habitat. Its attractive berries also make it a haven for birds seeking sustenance, while its medicinal properties offer additional benefits. Overall, creeping dogwood is a versatile and enchanting addition to any garden, offering a unique combination of visual appeal and ecological value.

Spotted dead-nettle (Lamium maculatum)

Spotted dead-nettle (Lamium maculatum)

Dead nettle, a low-growing perennial, shares some similarities with its stinging counterpart but lacks the painful reputation. Its leaves feature a striking green color with a distinctive gray stripe running through the center, while its purple flowers add a pop of color to any garden. This charming plant thrives in full shade, although it can also tolerate partial shade conditions. It prefers moist soil and will flourish when given the right conditions.

However, it has one major requirement: soil that drains well. Compact or poorly-drained soil is anathema to this plant’s growth. Interestingly, dead nettle is a member of the mint family and shares some of their spreading tendencies. When selecting varieties, gardeners should look for those with more moderate growing habits. In milder climates, dead nettle often retains its leaves year-round, making it a delightful addition to any garden.

Japanese spurge (Pachysandra terminalis)

Japanese spurge (Pachysandra terminalis)

This low-maintenance ground cover thrives in shaded, cool environments where other plants might struggle to survive. One of its most striking features are the vibrant, glossy leaves that add a pop of color to areas beneath trees. As spring arrives, the plant is adorned with delicate white blooms. While it’s a great choice for shady spots, this plant doesn’t do well in full sun or dry soil conditions.

On the plus side, it’s deer-resistant and forms a dense, spreading mat that can effectively crowd out weeds. However, it can be somewhat invasive in certain regions, so be sure to monitor its growth.

Liverleaf (Hepatica)

Liverleaf (Hepatica)

The vibrant purple blooms on this liverleaf plant burst forth with the arrival of spring’s melting snow, their beauty mirrored by the lush, deep green foliage that follows. Despite its lovely appearance, this ground cover thrives best when sheltered from intense afternoon sun and enjoys evenly moist soil conditions.

On the flip side, liverleaf has a few pet peeves: it detests drought and scorching bright sunlight, which can quickly prove fatal to the plant.

Interestingly, this species is often found in forested areas where rich, well-decomposed humus provides an ideal growing environment. Notably, liverleaf has been utilized in traditional medicine to address liver-related issues.

Canada anemone (Anemone canadensis)

Canada anemone (Anemone canadensis)

The windflower, also known as the Canada anemone, is a perennial native to North America that produces white blooms in the spring. While it may not be as well-known as some other ground covers, this plant has its own unique qualities that make it worth considering for your garden. For optimal growth, the windflower prefers full to part shade, but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.

Its soil preferences are similarly flexible, allowing it to thrive in both heavy clay and well-drained, moist conditions. One thing to note is that this plant requires consistent moisture, so be sure to provide it with regular watering. On the other hand, it does have a few advantages over some of its counterparts – its flowers grow taller than its leaves, making it a great candidate for cut flower arrangements in shallow vases, and it’s also deer-resistant.

As an added bonus, the windflower is part of the buttercup family, which has been recognized for its medicinal properties. All things considered, ground cover plants like the windflower are definitely worth considering for your garden. They offer a range of benefits, from providing color and attracting pollinators to offering potential medical applications. So next time you’re browsing at your local nursery, take a closer look at these understated yet valuable plants.

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