Imagine a garden that looks stunning year-round without the constant hassle of replanting. Perennial ground covers offer just that, providing a lush carpet of greenery and flowers that return year after year.
These plants are not only beautiful but also practical, suppressing weeds and reducing soil erosion. From sun-loving succulents to shade-loving ferns, there’s a perennial ground cover for every garden situation.
Let’s explore these 32 delightful options that promise to transform your garden into a picturesque paradise.
1. Creeping Thyme
This versatile ground cover is a showstopper in any garden. Creeping Thyme, with its aromatic foliage and petite blooms, is perfect for those sunny spots. Its resilience to foot traffic makes it an excellent choice for pathways.
Imagine a garden that smells delightful every time you walk through it. This plant thrives in well-drained soil and tolerates drought, making it perfect for low-maintenance gardens. Its charming flowers attract bees, aiding in pollination.
For a garden that requires minimal upkeep while offering maximum appeal, Creeping Thyme is a top contender.
2. Sweet Woodruff
In the quiet corners of a shaded garden, something magical thrives. Sweet Woodruff, known for its starry white flowers and whorled leaves, thrives in shade and adds a touch of enchantment.
This plant’s aromatic foliage is reminiscent of freshly mown hay. It spreads rapidly, creating a lush green carpet that’s perfect for suppressing weeds. Its sweet scent is a bonus.
If you’re aiming for a serene woodland garden effect, consider this perennial. Sweet Woodruff is not only beautiful but also a robust choice for shade gardens.
3. Ajuga (Bugleweed)
Amidst the garden’s colorful tapestry, a bold contender emerges. Ajuga, or Bugleweed, displays stunning blue flower spikes against rich, glossy foliage.
This plant is perfect for adding a dramatic effect to borders and under trees. It’s a fast grower, filling in gaps with ease and crowding out uninvited weeds.
For gardeners seeking vibrant color and texture without constant replanting, Ajuga is the ideal choice. Its ability to thrive in various conditions makes it incredibly versatile and easy to manage.
4. Liriope (Lilyturf)
In the realm of ground covers, one plant stands out with its grass-like elegance. Liriope, often called Lilyturf, is known for its lush, strappy leaves and vibrant purple flower spikes.
This hardy perennial thrives in both sun and shade, making it adaptable to most garden conditions. It creates a dense mat that helps to control erosion on slopes.
For those looking to add both texture and color without frequent maintenance, Liriope is a fantastic option. Its ability to thrive in challenging spots makes it a garden staple.
5. Pachysandra
Beneath the canopy of trees, a reliable ground cover thrives effortlessly. Pachysandra, with its evergreen leaves and delicate white flowers, is perfect for shady areas.
This plant forms a dense mat, ideal for preventing weeds from taking hold. Its low-growing nature makes it an excellent choice for underplanting shrubs.
For gardeners seeking year-round greenery with minimal fuss, Pachysandra offers a beautiful solution. Its ability to thrive in difficult shaded spots while maintaining lush foliage is unmatched.
6. Creeping Jenny
In a sunlit garden, a golden-hued beauty takes center stage. Creeping Jenny, with its vibrant yellow leaves, adds a splash of color to any landscape.
This tough plant is perfect for sunny spots where other plants might struggle. It cascades beautifully over rocks and paths, creating a stunning visual effect.
For those looking to brighten up their garden with minimal effort, Creeping Jenny is an ideal choice. Its vibrant foliage creates a cheerful atmosphere all season long.
7. Lamb’s Ear
In a garden filled with textures, a silvery softness catches the eye. Lamb’s Ear, with its velvety leaves, provides a unique tactile experience.
This perennial ground cover is perfect for sunny locations, where it thrives and spreads slowly. Its leaves are not only beautiful but also serve as a striking contrast to colorful flowers.
For gardeners seeking a plant with interesting texture and low water requirements, Lamb’s Ear is an excellent addition. Its drought tolerance makes it a resilient choice for various garden settings.
8. Sedum
On rocky terrains, a hardy plant stands resilient. Sedum, with its succulent leaves and starry flowers, is a tough ground cover that thrives in sun-drenched spaces.
This plant is perfect for rock gardens or dry areas where other plants might fail. It requires little water and offers a multitude of colors and textures.
For those seeking a drought-tolerant solution with diverse visual appeal, Sedum is a stellar choice. Its adaptability to harsh conditions makes it a favorite among gardeners.
9. Hellebores
In the heart of winter, when most plants are asleep, something remarkable blooms. Hellebores, with their nodding flowers, bring color to the coldest months.
This evergreen perennial is a favorite for shady garden spots. Its flowers come in a variety of hues, adding interest when little else is growing.
For gardeners wanting winter interest and year-round foliage, Hellebores are an exceptional choice. Their ability to thrive in difficult conditions makes them a must-have for any garden.
10. Hosta
In the shady recesses of the garden, foliage reigns supreme. Hostas, with their large, textured leaves, create a lush, verdant backdrop.
This perennial is perfect for adding depth and structure to shaded areas. Its wide range of leaf colors and patterns offers endless design possibilities.
For gardeners seeking robust, low-maintenance plants for shade, Hostas are an outstanding option. Their resilience and beauty make them a staple in many gardens.
11. Vinca Minor (Periwinkle)
Under the dappled shade, a tapestry of green and blue unfolds. Vinca Minor, or Periwinkle, is known for its glossy leaves and charming purple-blue flowers.
This hardy perennial is ideal for covering large areas with minimal effort. It thrives in a variety of conditions, from sun to partial shade.
For those looking to cover ground quickly and beautifully, Vinca Minor is an excellent choice. Its ability to adapt to different environments makes it a versatile addition to any garden.
12. Ice Plant
In coastal gardens, a splash of color stands resilient against the elements. The Ice Plant, with its succulent foliage and vivid blooms, thrives in sandy soils.
This hardy perennial is perfect for hot, dry areas where other plants struggle. Its ability to hold water in its leaves makes it exceptionally drought-tolerant.
For gardeners in search of a vibrant, low-water ground cover, the Ice Plant is a spectacular choice. Its bright flowers and resilience make it a standout in challenging conditions.
13. Mondo Grass
In the serene landscape of a Japanese garden, a unique grass-like plant takes the stage. Mondo Grass, with its dark, evergreen leaves, offers year-round beauty.
This ground cover is perfect for creating a tranquil and lush setting. It thrives in both sun and shade, making it adaptable to various garden designs.
For those aiming to achieve a minimalist yet elegant garden look, Mondo Grass is an exceptional choice. Its ability to grow in different conditions while maintaining its elegance is remarkable.
14. Bishop’s Weed (Goutweed)
In the diverse world of ground covers, a plant with striking foliage emerges. Bishop’s Weed, also known as Goutweed, is recognized for its variegated leaves.
This fast-growing perennial is ideal for covering large areas quickly. Its decorative foliage adds interest to otherwise plain garden spaces.
For gardeners looking to fill space efficiently with a touch of elegance, Bishop’s Weed is a great choice. However, its rapid growth requires careful management to prevent it from becoming invasive.
15. Houttuynia Cordata
Houttuynia Cordata, commonly known as Chameleon Plant, is a colorful ground cover that adds a unique touch to any garden. Known for its heart-shaped leaves with a mix of green, red, and cream hues, this plant thrives in moist, shaded areas.
This perennial is perfect for gardeners seeking to brighten up shaded spots with its vibrant foliage. Despite its beauty, it’s important to manage its growth, as it can become invasive if left unchecked.
Ideal for borders and garden beds, Houttuynia Cordata requires little maintenance once established. With proper care, it rewards gardeners with a stunning display of color and texture year after year.
16. Golden Creeping Jenny
Amidst the garden’s palette, a bright glow catches the eye. Golden Creeping Jenny, with its vibrant chartreuse leaves, adds a striking accent to any garden.
This low-growing perennial is perfect for sunny spots where it cascades beautifully over edges and rocks. Its bright foliage creates a cheerful atmosphere.
For gardeners wanting to infuse their garden with vivid color and minimal upkeep, Golden Creeping Jenny is an excellent choice. Its adaptability and striking appearance make it a favorite.
17. Mazus
In the moist corners of the garden, a delicate beauty thrives. Mazus, known for its small purple flowers and lush green foliage, is a charming ground cover.
This perennial is perfect for damp areas where other plants might struggle. It spreads quickly, creating a dense mat that helps keep weeds at bay.
For those seeking a moisture-loving ground cover with a touch of elegance, Mazus is a wonderful choice. Its rapid growth and charming flowers make it a delightful addition to wet garden areas.
18. Bearberry
In the rugged landscape of rocky gardens, a tenacious plant holds its ground. Bearberry, with its glossy leaves and red berries, is a standout among ground covers.
This hardy perennial is perfect for areas that experience harsh conditions. It thrives in poor soil and full sun, providing year-round interest with its evergreen foliage.
For gardeners in search of a resilient and visually appealing ground cover, Bearberry is a fantastic choice. Its ability to withstand challenging environments makes it a valuable addition to any garden.
19. Creeping Phlox
Under the warm embrace of the sun, a sea of color emerges. Creeping Phlox, with its vibrant pink flowers, offers a breathtaking display in spring.
This perennial is perfect for sunny slopes and rocky areas, where it forms a dense mat that helps control erosion. Its lush blooms attract butterflies, adding life to the garden.
For those looking to add a burst of color and wildlife interest, Creeping Phlox is an outstanding choice. Its ability to thrive in sunny spots while offering visual delight is unparalleled.
20. Irish Moss
In the shaded corners of the garden, a soft carpet invites a closer look. Irish Moss, with its delicate green tufts, creates a lush, inviting ground cover.
This perennial is perfect for areas with partial to full shade, where it forms a dense mat that helps retain moisture in the soil. Its soft texture adds a unique element to garden paths and edges.
For gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, tactile ground cover, Irish Moss is a fantastic option. Its ability to thrive in shade while providing visual softness is remarkable.
21. Snow-in-Summer
On a bright summer day, a shimmering spectacle unfolds. Snow-in-Summer, with its silver foliage and white flowers, creates a striking visual impact.
This perennial is perfect for sunny slopes and poor soil, where it thrives with minimal care. Its ability to form a dense mat helps control erosion and suppress weeds.
For those seeking a resilient ground cover that offers both beauty and practicality, Snow-in-Summer is an excellent choice. Its unique appearance and adaptability make it a standout in any garden.
22. Corsican Mint
In the garden’s aromatic tapestry, a tiny leaf packs a powerful scent. Corsican Mint, with its small leaves and dainty purple flowers, offers a fragrant ground cover option.
This perennial is perfect for planting between stepping stones, where its delightful scent is released with every step. It thrives in partial shade and moist soil, spreading quickly to form a dense mat.
For those looking to add fragrance and charm to their garden paths, Corsican Mint is an excellent choice. Its unique scent and rapid growth make it a garden favorite.
23. Siberian Cypress
In the textured world of rock gardens, a feathery presence stands out. Siberian Cypress, with its evergreen foliage, adds year-round interest.
This hardy perennial is perfect for rocky areas and poor soil, where it thrives with minimal care. Its ability to withstand cold temperatures makes it a valuable addition to any garden.
For gardeners seeking a resilient and visually appealing ground cover, Siberian Cypress is a fantastic choice. Its unique texture and adaptability make it a standout option.
24. Japanese Spurge (Pachysandra Terminalis)
In the shaded corners of the garden, a lush carpet takes shape. Japanese Spurge, with its glossy green leaves, is perfect for adding greenery to shaded areas.
This perennial is ideal for forming a dense mat that suppresses weeds and retains moisture. Its low-growing nature makes it an excellent choice for underplanting trees and shrubs.
For those seeking a low-maintenance ground cover for shade, Japanese Spurge is an outstanding option. Its ability to thrive in difficult conditions while maintaining lush foliage is unmatched.
25. Rock Cress
In the rugged terrain of rock gardens, a vibrant display takes center stage. Rock Cress, with its purple flowers, adds a splash of color to rocky areas.
This perennial is perfect for sunny locations, where it forms a dense mat that helps control erosion. Its bright blooms attract pollinators, adding life to the garden.
For those seeking a colorful and resilient ground cover, Rock Cress is an excellent choice. Its ability to thrive in challenging conditions makes it a valuable addition to any garden.
26. Creeping Raspberry
In the edible landscape, a ground cover with benefits emerges. Creeping Raspberry, with its textured leaves and small berries, offers both beauty and utility.
This perennial is perfect for sunny areas where it spreads to form a dense mat. Its small raspberries are not only edible but also attract wildlife.
For gardeners looking to combine aesthetics with practicality, Creeping Raspberry is an excellent choice. Its ability to provide fruit while enhancing the landscape makes it a unique addition.
27. Lithodora
Under the bright sun, a vibrant blue star catches the eye. Lithodora, with its star-shaped flowers, offers a striking contrast in any garden.
This perennial is perfect for sunny spots where it forms a dense mat that suppresses weeds. Its vivid blooms attract bees and butterflies, adding life to the garden.
For those seeking a colorful and low-maintenance ground cover, Lithodora is an outstanding option. Its ability to thrive in sunny conditions while providing visual interest is exceptional.
28. Creeping Charlie
In the shaded niches of the garden, a versatile plant takes hold. Creeping Charlie, with its scalloped leaves and purple flowers, offers texture and color.
This perennial is perfect for filling in shaded areas quickly and efficiently. It spreads rapidly, forming a dense mat that helps suppress weeds.
For gardeners seeking a robust and adaptable ground cover, Creeping Charlie is a valuable choice. Its ability to thrive in various conditions makes it a versatile addition to any garden.
29. Woolly Thyme
In the soft embrace of the garden, a tactile experience awaits. Woolly Thyme, with its fuzzy leaves, creates a unique ground cover.
This perennial is perfect for sunny spots and between stepping stones, where its soft texture invites touch. Its resilience to foot traffic makes it an ideal choice for pathways.
For those looking to add texture and charm to their garden with minimal effort, Woolly Thyme is an excellent choice. Its ability to thrive in dry conditions while offering a tactile experience is remarkable.
30. Sea Thrift
In coastal gardens, a hardy plant dances with the wind. Sea Thrift, with its grass-like leaves and pink flowers, thrives in sandy soils.
This perennial is perfect for coastal areas where it forms a dense mat that helps control erosion. Its bright blooms add a pop of color against the backdrop of the sea.
For gardeners seeking a resilient and visually appealing ground cover for coastal gardens, Sea Thrift is a fantastic choice. Its ability to withstand harsh conditions makes it a valuable addition to any seascape.
31. Creeping Mazus
In the quiet corners of the garden, a delicate carpet unfurls. Creeping Mazus, with its tiny purple flowers, offers a charming ground cover option.
This perennial is perfect for damp areas where it spreads quickly to form a lush mat. Its rapid growth helps suppress weeds, making it a practical choice.
For those seeking a moisture-loving ground cover with a touch of elegance, Creeping Mazus is an excellent choice. Its ability to thrive in wet conditions while adding beauty is remarkable.
32. Ground Morning Glory
In the vibrant world of garden blooms, a blue funnel-shaped flower captivates. Ground Morning Glory, with its trailing stems, offers a splash of color.
This perennial is perfect for sunny areas where it thrives and spreads quickly. Its lush blooms attract pollinators, adding life to the garden.
For gardeners seeking a colorful and low-maintenance ground cover, Ground Morning Glory is an outstanding option. Its ability to thrive in sunny spots while providing vibrant blooms is exceptional.