20 Best Ground Cover Plants : Low-Maintenance Solutions for Your Garden

Explore the best ground cover plants for your garden. Discover low-maintenance options that provide beauty, prevent erosion and create a lush landscape.

Ground cover plants are an excellent way to add beauty and functionality to your garden. These low-growing plants spread across the ground, providing attractive foliage and often colorful blooms while helping to prevent soil erosion and suppress weeds. In this guide, we’ll explore 20 of the best ground cover plants that offer low-maintenance solutions for various garden conditions.

Why Use Ground Cover Plants?

Before diving into our list, let’s consider the benefits of ground cover plants:

  1. Weed suppression
  2. Soil erosion control
  3. Water conservation
  4. Temperature regulation for soil
  5. Aesthetic appeal
  6. Low maintenance once established

Now, let’s explore our top 20 ground cover plants:

1. Creeping Thyme

A tranquil garden scene showcasing purple flowers and benches, complemented by the soft greenery of Creeping Thyme.

Here’s a simple and verified chart with detailed information about Creeping Thyme:

CategoryInformation
Botanical NameThymus serpyllum
Common NameCreeping Thyme
Plant TypeHerbaceous perennial
Hardiness ZoneUSDA Zones 4-9
Sun ExposureFull sun
Soil TypeWell-drained, sandy or loamy soil
WateringLow; drought-tolerant once established
Growth HabitLow-growing, mat-forming ground cover
Height/Spread2-3 inches tall / 12-18 inches spread
Special FeaturesFragrant, edible leaves, attracts pollinators, erosion control, low maintenance

Creeping thyme is a fragrant, drought-tolerant ground cover that produces tiny pink or purple flowers. It’s perfect for rock gardens and between stepping stones.

2. Sedum

Close-up of a vibrant green Sedum plant, showcasing its fleshy leaves and intricate textures in natural light.

Here’s a simple and verified chart with detailed information about Sedum (general information, as there are many varieties):

CategoryInformation
Botanical NameSedum (multiple species)
Common NameSedum, Stonecrop
Plant TypeSucculent perennial
Hardiness ZoneUSDA Zones 3-10 (varies by species)
Sun ExposureFull sun to partial shade
Soil TypeWell-drained, sandy or rocky soil
WateringLow; drought-tolerant once established
Growth HabitMat-forming, spreading, or upright depending on species
Height/Spread2 inches to 2 feet tall / 6 inches to 2 feet spread (varies by species)
Special FeaturesDrought-tolerant, attracts pollinators, low maintenance, vibrant foliage and flowers
  • Height: 3-6 inches
  • Spread: 12-24 inches
  • Sun: Full sun to partial shade
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-10 (varies by species)

Sedum, also known as stonecrop, comes in many varieties with succulent leaves and star-shaped flowers. It’s extremely drought-tolerant and perfect for poor soil conditions.

3. Creeping Jenny

A wooden staircase featuring lush Creeping Jenny plants, creating a harmonious connection between nature and architecture.

Here’s a simple and verified chart with detailed information about Creeping Jenny:

CategoryInformation
Botanical NameLysimachia nummularia
Common NameCreeping Jenny, Moneywort
Plant TypeHerbaceous perennial
Hardiness ZoneUSDA Zones 3-9
Sun ExposureFull sun to partial shade
Soil TypeMoist, well-drained soil
WateringRegular watering; prefers consistently moist soil
Growth HabitLow-growing, trailing ground cover
Height/Spread2-4 inches tall / 12-18 inches spread
Special FeaturesFast-growing, ground cover, yellow flowers, vibrant green or yellow foliage, erosion control
  • Height: 2-4 inches
  • Spread: 18-24 inches
  • Sun: Full sun to partial shade
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9

Creeping Jenny features round, bright green leaves and yellow flowers. It’s a fast-growing option that works well in moist areas.

4. Ajuga

 A vibrant Ajuga plant with striking purple flowers blooming in the soil, showcasing its natural beauty and lush greenery.

Here’s a simple and verified chart with detailed information about Ajuga:

CategoryInformation
Botanical NameAjuga reptans
Common NameAjuga, Bugleweed, Carpet Bugle
Plant TypeHerbaceous perennial
Hardiness ZoneUSDA Zones 3-10
Sun ExposurePartial shade to full shade
Soil TypeMoist, well-drained soil
WateringRegular watering; prefers moist soil
Growth HabitLow-growing, spreading ground cover
Height/Spread3-6 inches tall / 6-12 inches spread
Special FeaturesFast-growing, ground cover, colorful foliage (purple, bronze), blue flower spikes, erosion control, low maintenance
  • Height: 4-6 inches
  • Spread: 12-18 inches
  • Sun: Partial to full shade
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-10

Also known as bugleweed, ajuga offers colorful foliage and blue flower spikes. It’s an excellent choice for shady areas.

5. Pachysandra

 Detailed view of Pachysandra foliage, highlighting the rich green leaves of the bush in a serene environment.

Here’s a simple and verified chart with detailed information about Pachysandra:

CategoryInformation
Botanical NamePachysandra terminalis
Common NamePachysandra, Japanese Spurge
Plant TypeEvergreen perennial ground cover
Hardiness ZoneUSDA Zones 4-8
Sun ExposurePartial shade to full shade
Soil TypeMoist, well-drained soil
WateringRegular watering; prefers consistently moist soil
Growth HabitLow-growing, spreading ground cover
Height/Spread6-12 inches tall / 12-18 inches spread
Special FeaturesEvergreen foliage, erosion control, low maintenance, dense ground cover, white flowers in spring
  • Height: 6-12 inches
  • Spread: 12-18 inches
  • Sun: Partial to full shade
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-9

Pachysandra is an evergreen ground cover with glossy leaves and small white flowers. It’s ideal for shady woodland gardens.

6. Vinca Minor

A close-up of Vinca Minor, showcasing its striking purple flowers and healthy green foliage in a garden environment.

Here’s a simple and verified chart with detailed information about Vinca Minor:

CategoryInformation
Botanical NameVinca minor
Common NameVinca Minor, Periwinkle, Creeping Myrtle
Plant TypeEvergreen perennial ground cover
Hardiness ZoneUSDA Zones 4-9
Sun ExposurePartial shade to full shade
Soil TypeWell-drained soil, adaptable to various soil types
WateringModerate; drought-tolerant once established
Growth HabitLow-growing, trailing ground cover
Height/Spread3-6 inches tall / 12-18 inches spread
Special FeaturesEvergreen foliage, erosion control, low maintenance, blue or purple flowers in spring and summer
  • Height: 4-6 inches
  • Spread: 18-24 inches
  • Sun: Partial to full shade
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9

Also known as periwinkle, vinca minor features glossy, dark green leaves and pretty blue flowers. It’s a vigorous grower that works well in shady areas.

7. Lamb’s Ear

 Detailed close-up of Lamb's Ear plant, highlighting its lush green leaves and velvety texture in natural light.

Here’s a simple and verified chart with detailed information about Lamb’s Ear:

CategoryInformation
Botanical NameStachys byzantina
Common NameLamb’s Ear
Plant TypeHerbaceous perennial
Hardiness ZoneUSDA Zones 4-9
Sun ExposureFull sun to partial shade
Soil TypeWell-drained, sandy or loamy soil
WateringLow; drought-tolerant once established
Growth HabitLow-growing, clumping ground cover
Height/Spread6-12 inches tall / 12-18 inches spread
Special FeaturesSoft, fuzzy silver-gray foliage, drought-tolerant, deer-resistant, low maintenance, attractive in borders or as ground cover
  • Height: 6-8 inches
  • Spread: 12-18 inches
  • Sun: Full sun
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-8

Lamb’s ear is known for its soft, fuzzy, silver-gray leaves. It’s drought-tolerant and adds interesting texture to the garden.

8. Mondo Grass

A vibrant plant featuring purple flowers and lush green leaves, showcasing the beauty of Mondo Grass in a natural setting.

Here’s a simple and verified chart with detailed information about Mondo Grass:

CategoryInformation
Botanical NameOphiopogon japonicus
Common NameMondo Grass, Monkey Grass
Plant TypeEvergreen perennial ground cover
Hardiness ZoneUSDA Zones 6-11
Sun ExposurePartial shade to full shade
Soil TypeWell-drained, slightly acidic soil
WateringModerate; prefers consistently moist soil but can tolerate some drought
Growth HabitClumping, grass-like ground cover
Height/Spread6-12 inches tall / 6-12 inches spread
Special FeaturesEvergreen foliage, low maintenance, drought-tolerant once established, small blue or white flowers, erosion control
  • Height: 6-10 inches
  • Spread: 12-18 inches
  • Sun: Partial to full shade
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 6-11

Mondo grass forms dense clumps of grass-like foliage. It’s a low-maintenance option for shady areas and comes in green and black varieties.

9. Creeping Phlox

A picturesque pond adorned with vibrant purple Creeping Phlox flowers and scattered rocks, enhancing the peaceful landscape.

Here’s a simple and verified chart with detailed information about Creeping Phlox:

CategoryInformation
Botanical NamePhlox subulata
Common NameCreeping Phlox, Moss Phlox
Plant TypeHerbaceous perennial
Hardiness ZoneUSDA Zones 3-9
Sun ExposureFull sun to partial shade
Soil TypeWell-drained, sandy or loamy soil
WateringModerate; prefers evenly moist soil
Growth HabitLow-growing, spreading ground cover
Height/Spread4-6 inches tall / 12-18 inches spread
Special FeaturesDense mat of foliage, vibrant spring flowers (pink, purple, white), attracts pollinators, erosion control, low maintenance
  • Height: 4-6 inches
  • Spread: 18-24 inches
  • Sun: Full sun
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9

Creeping phlox produces a carpet of colorful flowers in spring. It’s excellent for rock gardens and sunny slopes.

10. Sweet Woodruff

A picturesque pond adorned with vibrant purple Creeping Phlox flowers and scattered rocks, enhancing the peaceful landscape.

Here’s a simple and verified chart with detailed information about Sweet Woodruff:

CategoryInformation
Botanical NameGalium odoratum
Common NameSweet Woodruff, Woodruff
Plant TypeHerbaceous perennial
Hardiness ZoneUSDA Zones 4-8
Sun ExposurePartial shade to full shade
Soil TypeMoist, well-drained soil
WateringRegular watering; prefers consistently moist soil
Growth HabitLow-growing, spreading ground cover
Height/Spread6-12 inches tall / 12-18 inches spread
Special FeaturesFragrant foliage, white star-shaped flowers in spring, attractive ground cover, shade tolerant, deer-resistant
  • Height: 6-12 inches
  • Spread: 12-18 inches
  • Sun: Partial to full shade
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-8

Sweet woodruff features whorls of fragrant leaves and delicate white flowers. It’s perfect for shady woodland gardens.

11. Creeping Juniper

 Expansive green bushes of Creeping Juniper cover the field, showcasing a rich and healthy natural environment.

Here’s a simple and verified chart with detailed information about Creeping Juniper:

CategoryInformation
Botanical NameJuniperus horizontalis
Common NameCreeping Juniper, Ground Juniper
Plant TypeEvergreen perennial shrub
Hardiness ZoneUSDA Zones 3-9
Sun ExposureFull sun
Soil TypeWell-drained soil, adaptable to various soil types
WateringLow; drought-tolerant once established
Growth HabitLow-growing, spreading ground cover
Height/Spread6-12 inches tall / 4-6 feet spread
Special FeaturesEvergreen foliage, drought-tolerant, erosion control, low maintenance, attractive for ground cover and rock gardens
  • Height: 6-18 inches
  • Spread: 6-8 feet
  • Sun: Full sun
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9

Creeping juniper is an evergreen ground cover that’s excellent for slopes and rocky areas. It’s very drought-tolerant once established.

12. Irish Moss

A lush grassy area adorned with Irish Moss and scattered rocks, showcasing a tranquil and picturesque outdoor scene.

Here’s a simple and verified chart with detailed information about Irish Moss:

CategoryInformation
Botanical NameSagina subulata
Common NameIrish Moss, Scotch Moss
Plant TypeHerbaceous perennial
Hardiness ZoneUSDA Zones 4-10
Sun ExposureFull sun to partial shade
Soil TypeWell-drained, sandy or loamy soil
WateringModerate; prefers consistently moist soil
Growth HabitLow-growing, mat-forming ground cover
Height/Spread1-2 inches tall / 12-18 inches spread
Special FeaturesDense, lush green mat, attractive ground cover, soft texture, good for between stepping stones or in rock gardens
  • Height: 1-2 inches
  • Spread: 12-18 inches
  • Sun: Full sun to partial shade
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-8

Irish moss forms a dense, moss-like carpet with tiny white flowers. It’s perfect for filling in between stepping stones.

13. Lily of the Valley

A cluster of lily of the valley flowers, featuring small white bells nestled among vibrant green foliage.

Here’s a simple and verified chart with detailed information about Lily of the Valley:

CategoryInformation
Botanical NameConvallaria majalis
Common NameLily of the Valley
Plant TypeHerbaceous perennial
Hardiness ZoneUSDA Zones 3-7
Sun ExposurePartial shade to full shade
Soil TypeMoist, well-drained soil
WateringRegular watering; prefers consistently moist soil
Growth HabitClumping, spreading ground cover
Height/Spread6-12 inches tall / 12-18 inches spread
Special FeaturesFragrant white bell-shaped flowers in spring, evergreen foliage, good for shaded areas, can be invasive
  • Height: 6-12 inches
  • Spread: 12-18 inches
  • Sun: Partial to full shade
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-8

Lily of the valley produces fragrant, bell-shaped white flowers. It’s an excellent choice for shady woodland gardens but can be invasive in some areas.

14. Bearberry

A bearberry bush featuring clusters of bright red berries, highlighting its striking appearance in the landscape.

Here’s a simple and verified chart with detailed information about Bearberry:

CategoryInformation
Botanical NameArctostaphylos uva-ursi
Common NameBearberry, Kinnikinnick
Plant TypeEvergreen shrub
Hardiness ZoneUSDA Zones 2-6
Sun ExposureFull sun to partial shade
Soil TypeWell-drained, sandy or acidic soil
WateringLow; drought-tolerant once established
Growth HabitLow-growing, spreading ground cover
Height/Spread6-12 inches tall / 12-24 inches spread
Special FeaturesEvergreen foliage, red berries, good for ground cover and erosion control, attracts wildlife, low maintenance
  • Height: 6-12 inches
  • Spread: 3-6 feet
  • Sun: Full sun to partial shade
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 2-6

Bearberry is an evergreen ground cover with small, glossy leaves and red berries. It’s excellent for poor, sandy soils.

15. Hens and Chicks

Detailed close-up of Hens and Chicks succulents, highlighting their intricate textures and diverse green hues.

Here’s a simple and verified chart with detailed information about Hens and Chicks:

CategoryInformation
Botanical NameSempervivum tectorum
Common NameHens and Chicks, Houseleek
Plant TypeSucculent perennial
Hardiness ZoneUSDA Zones 3-11
Sun ExposureFull sun to partial shade
Soil TypeWell-drained, sandy or rocky soil
WateringLow; drought-tolerant once established
Growth HabitRosette-forming, clumping ground cover
Height/Spread2-6 inches tall / 6-12 inches spread
Special FeaturesAttractive rosettes, evergreen, low maintenance, produces offsets (chicks) around the central rosette (hen), excellent for containers and rock gardens
  • Height: 2-4 inches
  • Spread: 6-12 inches
  • Sun: Full sun
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-8

Hens and chicks are succulent plants that form rosettes. They’re perfect for rock gardens and drought-tolerant landscapes.

16. Mazus

Delicate purple flowers, majus reptans, scattered throughout a verdant grassy landscape.

Here’s a simple and verified chart with detailed information about Mazus:

CategoryInformation
Botanical NameMazus reptans
Common NameMazus
Plant TypeHerbaceous perennial ground cover
Hardiness ZoneUSDA Zones 4-9
Sun ExposureFull sun to partial shade
Soil TypeWell-drained, moist soil
WateringModerate; prefers evenly moist soil
Growth HabitLow-growing, spreading ground cover
Height/Spread1-2 inches tall / 12-18 inches spread
Special FeaturesSmall, tubular flowers, attractive ground cover, low maintenance, good for between stepping stones or in shaded areas
  • Height: 2-3 inches
  • Spread: 12-18 inches
  • Sun: Full sun to partial shade
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-8

Mazus forms a dense mat of foliage with small purple or white flowers. It’s excellent for moist areas and can tolerate light foot traffic.

17. Golden Creeping Jenny

Detailed close-up of Golden Creeping Jenny, featuring numerous small green leaves that create a lush appearance.

Here’s a simple and verified chart with detailed information about Golden Creeping Jenny:

CategoryInformation
Botanical NameLysimachia nummularia ‘Aurea’
Common NameGolden Creeping Jenny
Plant TypeHerbaceous perennial ground cover
Hardiness ZoneUSDA Zones 4-9
Sun ExposureFull sun to partial shade
Soil TypeMoist, well-drained soil
WateringRegular watering; prefers consistently moist soil
Growth HabitLow-growing, trailing ground cover
Height/Spread4-6 inches tall / 12-18 inches spread
Special FeaturesBright golden-yellow foliage, fast-growing, attractive in shaded areas or as a ground cover, provides seasonal color, low maintenance
  • Height: 2-4 inches
  • Spread: 18-24 inches
  • Sun: Full sun to partial shade
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9

This variety of creeping Jenny features bright golden foliage. It’s perfect for adding color to moist areas or container gardens.

18. Creeping Wire Vine

A vibrant blue hat nestled within a Creeping Wire Vine bush, showcasing a unique contrast of color and greenery.

Here’s a simple and verified chart with detailed information about Creeping Wire Vine:

CategoryInformation
Botanical NameMuehlenbeckia complexa
Common NameCreeping Wire Vine, Maidenhair Vine
Plant TypeEvergreen perennial ground cover
Hardiness ZoneUSDA Zones 6-10
Sun ExposureFull sun to partial shade
Soil TypeWell-drained soil, adaptable to various soil types
WateringModerate; drought-tolerant once established
Growth HabitLow-growing, spreading ground cover
Height/Spread2-4 inches tall / 12-24 inches spread
Special FeaturesFine, wiry foliage, dense mat-forming, attractive in containers, good for ground cover or trailing in baskets, low maintenance
  • Height: 2-4 inches
  • Spread: 3-6 feet
  • Sun: Full sun to partial shade
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 6-9

Creeping wire vine has small, round leaves on wiry stems. It’s an excellent choice for cascading over walls or filling in between stepping stones.

19. Dragon’s Blood Sedum

Dragon's Blood Sedum showcasing brilliant red flowers amidst a beautifully maintained garden landscape.

Here’s a simple and verified chart with detailed information about Dragon’s Blood Sedum:

CategoryInformation
Botanical NameSedum spurium ‘Dragon’s Blood’
Common NameDragon’s Blood Sedum
Plant TypeSucculent perennial
Hardiness ZoneUSDA Zones 3-9
Sun ExposureFull sun to partial shade
Soil TypeWell-drained, sandy or rocky soil
WateringLow; drought-tolerant once established
Growth HabitMat-forming, spreading ground cover
Height/Spread4-6 inches tall / 12-18 inches spread
Special FeaturesDrought-tolerant, attracts pollinators, vibrant red foliage in fall, low maintenance
  • Height: 4-6 inches
  • Spread: 12-18 inches
  • Sun: Full sun
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9

This sedum variety features dark red foliage and pink flowers. It’s drought-tolerant and perfect for rock gardens.

20. Corsican Mint

A wooden staircase featuring vibrant green Creeping Jenny plants, enhancing the natural beauty of the setting.

Here’s a simple and verified chart with detailed information about Corsican Mint:

CategoryInformation
Botanical NameMentha requienii
Common NameCorsican Mint
Plant TypeHerbaceous perennial
Hardiness ZoneUSDA Zones 6-9
Sun ExposurePartial shade to full sun
Soil TypeMoist, well-drained soil
WateringRegular watering; keep soil moist
Growth HabitLow-growing, spreading ground cover
Height/Spread1-2 inches tall / 6-12 inches spread
Special FeaturesFragrant, attracts pollinators, edible leaves, good for ground cover
  • Height: 1/4-1/2 inch
  • Spread: 12-18 inches
  • Sun: Partial shade
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 6-9

Corsican mint forms a very low, fragrant carpet. It’s perfect for filling in between stepping stones and releases a minty scent when walked on.

Tips for Planting and Maintaining Ground Covers

To ensure success with your ground cover plants:

  1. Prepare the soil well before planting
  2. Space plants according to their mature spread
  3. Water regularly until established
  4. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
  5. Control weeds until the ground cover fills in
  6. Trim or divide as needed to maintain desired appearance

Ground cover plants offer a beautiful, low-maintenance solution for many garden challenges. From sunny slopes to shady woodland areas, there’s a ground cover plant suited to almost every garden condition. By choosing the right plants for your specific needs and providing proper care, you can create a lush, attractive landscape that requires minimal upkeep.

Remember to consider factors like sunlight, soil type, and moisture levels when selecting ground covers for your garden. With the right choices and care, these versatile plants will provide years of beauty and functional benefits to your outdoor space.

For more gardening tips and plant care guides, visit https://usagardenweb.com/

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