I’m about to take you on a leafy adventure under the canopy of your trees! What’s the secret to a lush landscape around those tree roots? Ground cover plants that are as easygoing as your favorite pair of slippers. With a sprinkle here and a dash there, these verdant wonders will transform your garden into a woodland wonderland. Ready to meet your new green companions?
1. Creeping Jenny
When the sun peeks through the branches, it’s like Creeping Jenny’s time to shine. This plant, with its bright yellow-green leaves, loves spreading joy around tree roots.
Creeping Jenny doesn’t just stay put; she gracefully trails along, making herself at home. Her sunny disposition brings a glow to any shaded area she graces.
A splash of water now and then keeps her happy. Plus, she’s not picky about soil! Whether it’s clay or loam, she’ll thrive and make your garden dazzle with charm.
2. Sweet Woodruff
Imagine a plant that smells as sweet as it looks. Sweet Woodruff, with its fragrant star-shaped flowers, is a treat for the senses.
This delicate beauty doesn’t mind a bit of shade, making her the perfect ground cover under leafy giants. Her leaves form a dense mat, ensuring she holds her own against weeds.
Even with her dainty appearance, she’s tough. A little love, some water, and she effortlessly turns any area into a floral paradise. Plus, she’s perfect for a touch of magic in your garden.
3. Pachysandra
Looking for a plant that’s as reliable as your morning coffee? Meet Pachysandra, the glossy-green ground cover that’s always on point.
She thrives in the shade, where her leaves stay fresh and fabulous all year round. Perfect for those hard-to-fill spots under trees, she’s a gardener’s best friend.
With minimal fuss, Pachysandra keeps the soil cool and weed-free. Just give her a little trim now and then, and she’ll reward you with lush greenery like it’s no big deal.
4. Bunchberry
Beneath the trees, where shadows dance, Bunchberry finds its groove. This ground cover comes alive with white flowers and bright red berries.
Bunchberry loves the cool, dappled light beneath trees, where it spreads slowly but surely. It’s like nature’s little secret tucked away in your garden.
Keep the soil slightly acidic and moist, and Bunchberry will reward you with its woodland charm. It’s perfect for those who want a touch of the wild without wandering too far from home.
5. Vinca Minor
Ever seen a plant that dances with the wind? Vinca Minor, with its purple-blue flowers, does just that beneath the trees.
This little mover and shaker loves the shade, making it the perfect companion for those hard-to-cover spots. It’s not just pretty; it’s practical too!
Vinca Minor combats weeds with its dense mat of greenery. A bit of regular watering, and you’ll have a garden partner that’s as enchanting as it is easy to care for.
6. Ajuga
There’s something bold and beautiful lurking in the shade, and it’s called Ajuga. With its purple-blue spikes, it’s hard to ignore.
This ground cover isn’t shy about making a statement beneath tree canopies. Ajuga is a fast grower, quickly covering bare patches with ease.
A little moisture and a bit of room to spread, and Ajuga will dominate the space, adding color with a flourish. It’s the pop artist of the plant world, with a penchant for cool, shaded spots.
7. Lilyturf
Imagine a plant that’s as versatile as a multi-tool. Enter Lilyturf, with dark green blades and purple flower spikes.
It thrives in the shade yet isn’t afraid of a little sun, making it the ideal ground cover for under trees. Its grass-like appearance adds texture to any garden.
Lilyturf is the low-maintenance friend we all need. With minimal care, it keeps weeds at bay while adding a splash of color. Truly, it’s the underdog of garden champions.
8. Deadnettle
Not all nettles sting! Deadnettle, with its silver-speckled leaves and pink blooms, is soft to the touch and easy on the eyes.
This ground cover grows happily in the shade, where it forms a dense carpet that shimmers in the light. It’s like a silver lining for your garden floor.
A little pruning here and there keeps it tidy. Deadnettle’s charm lies in its ability to brighten up the darkest corners with minimal fuss. It’s the perfect blend of beauty and brawn.
9. Hosta
Big leaves, big personality! That’s Hosta for you. This plant is the king of the shade garden with its lush, oversized foliage.
Hostas are perfect ground covers under trees, where their leaves create a lush, tropical vibe. They’re as bold as they are beautiful.
These shade-loving giants require a bit of watering and good drainage. In return, they’ll bring a touch of the exotic to your backyard, making you feel like you’re on a mini-vacation every day.
10. Bugleweed
Meet the garden’s little warrior, Bugleweed. With its vibrant purple flowers, it’s ready to conquer the shaded areas.
Bugleweed doesn’t just sit pretty; it actively fights off weeds, making it both a beauty and a beast.
Just a bit of sun and occasional watering, and Bugleweed will thrive. Its dark foliage adds drama, while its resilience makes it a favorite for filling those tricky spots under trees.
11. Wild Ginger
Who knew ginger could be wild and wonderful? Wild Ginger, with its heart-shaped leaves, knows how to make a statement.
Ideal for shady spots, it forms a dense cover that’s both elegant and earthy. Its roots have a subtle gingery aroma, adding a sensory layer to your garden.
This native plant is a breeze to care for. Just keep the soil moist, and Wild Ginger will reward you with its grounded charm. It’s the perfect companion for those who love a hint of the wild.
12. Yellow Archangel
When you want sunshine under trees, Yellow Archangel delivers. With bright yellow flowers, it’s like sunshine in plant form.
This ground cover thrives in the shade, spreading its variegated leaves with gusto. It’s a lively addition to any garden looking for a splash of color.
Water regularly, and Yellow Archangel will brighten up even the gloomiest corners. It’s not just a pretty face; it’s a resilient plant that knows how to make an entrance.
13. Foamflower
What’s foamy, floral, and fabulous? Foamflower, with its delicate pink and white blossoms, is what.
This ground cover loves the cool embrace of shade, where it flourishes with ease. It forms a luscious carpet that’s perfect for woodland gardens.
Foamflower is easy to care for—just keep the soil moist, and it’ll reward you with its frothy blooms. It’s like nature’s own bubble bath for your garden, adding a touch of whimsy to the landscape.
14. Periwinkle
Blue flowers that seem to twinkle in the shade? That’s Periwinkle for you. This ground cover is a cheerful addition to any garden.
With its glossy green leaves and blue blossoms, Periwinkle thrives in the shade, creating a dense mat that’s both beautiful and practical.
Easy to care for, Periwinkle just needs occasional watering to stay vibrant. It’s a delightful plant that dances with the breeze, adding a touch of whimsy wherever it grows.
15. Wintergreen
Evergreen with a hint of mint, Wintergreen is a fresh addition to your under-tree garden.
This ground cover loves the shade, where its shiny green leaves and red berries create a festive atmosphere year-round.
With minimal care, Wintergreen thrives, offering both beauty and a delightful aroma. It’s like having a breath of fresh air right in your backyard, perfect for those who love a touch of nature’s charm.
16. Bronze Dutch Clover
Picture a plant with the Midas touch—Bronze Dutch Clover turns ordinary gardens into gold.
This ground cover thrives in the shade, spreading its bronze-tinged leaves with ease. Its tiny white flowers add a sprinkle of charm.
Little care is needed, and it keeps weeds at bay while adding a touch of elegance. It’s the golden ticket to a beautiful garden, without the need for endless fuss.
17. Irish Moss
Soft as a leprechaun’s step, Irish Moss turns garden floors into velvety carpets.
This ground cover loves the shade, where its tiny white flowers add a touch of whimsy. It’s perfect for those who want a touch of the Emerald Isle.
Easy to care for, Irish Moss requires regular moisture to stay lush. It’s the gentle giant of ground covers, adding a magical quality to any shady spot.
18. Hellebore
Hellebore, with its grand blossoms, is the garden’s drama queen. Beneath the trees, it shines with shades of pink and white.
This ground cover loves the shade, creating an elegant display with minimal effort. It’s the perfect plant for those who crave a bit of glam.
Easy to maintain, Hellebore just needs well-drained soil to thrive. It’s the star of the show, adding a touch of sophistication to any garden.
19. Partridgeberry
In the forest’s embrace, Partridgeberry finds its rhythm with bright red berries and petite leaves.
This ground cover thrives in the shade, spreading its charm with ease. Its berries add a pop of color to the woodland scenery.
Low maintenance, Partridgeberry just needs a bit of moisture to flourish. It’s the perfect plant for those who love a hint of the wild and a splash of color.
20. Japanese Spurge
Ever wanted a plant that’s as dependable as your favorite song? Japanese Spurge, with its glossy green leaves, hits all the right notes.
This ground cover thrives in the shade, forming a dense mat that’s both attractive and practical. It’s the gardener’s go-to for easy elegance.
Minimal care is needed, and Japanese Spurge keeps the weeds away while adding a touch of class. It’s the evergreen friend your garden deserves.
21. Liverleaf
Liverleaf, with its delicate blue flowers, brings a touch of the sky to the shaded ground below.
This ground cover thrives in the shade, where its lobed leaves add texture and interest. It’s perfect for those who enjoy subtle beauty.
Easy to care for, Liverleaf just needs a well-drained soil to flourish. It’s the quiet achiever, adding a gentle grace to any garden scene.
22. Creeping Thyme
Who knew thyme could creep and charm? Creeping Thyme, with its aromatic leaves and purple flowers, does just that.
This ground cover thrives near trees, where sun dapples the earth. Its fragrance is a bonus, adding an inviting aroma to your garden.
Easy to care for, Creeping Thyme requires little water and brings a touch of the Mediterranean to your outdoor space. It’s the perfect plant for those who love a sensory garden experience.
23. Horned Rampion
For those looking for something a bit different, Horned Rampion stands tall with its purple-blue flower spikes.
This ground cover thrives in the shade, where it adds vertical interest and a touch of whimsy. It’s the perfect plant for adventurous gardeners.
With minimal care, Horned Rampion flourishes, bringing a unique flair to any garden. It’s the whimsical touch your shaded areas have been craving.
24. Bearberry
Bearberry is the garden’s sweet secret with its bright red berries and lush green leaves.
This ground cover thrives near trees, especially where sunlight can peek through. It’s the perfect plant for those sunny spots that need a touch of color.
Easy to care for, Bearberry just needs occasional watering to stay vibrant. It’s the cheerful addition that makes your garden feel like a hidden gem.
25. Mazus
Mazus, with its lavender flowers, is the garden’s understated gem. This ground cover loves the shade, where it spreads gracefully.
With its dense foliage, Mazus makes sure weeds stay at bay, all while adding a gentle splash of color.
Easy to care for, Mazus requires minimal attention, making it perfect for gardeners who appreciate beauty without the fuss. It’s the quiet charm that enhances any shaded garden.
26. Creeping Phlox
Pink flowers that cascade like a gentle waterfall? That’s Creeping Phlox in action.
This ground cover thrives in the shade, where its vibrant blooms add a touch of romance to your garden. It’s perfect for those who love a bit of drama.
With minimal care, Creeping Phlox spreads effortlessly, turning any ordinary spot into a dreamy landscape. It’s the romantic’s choice for a garden filled with love.
27. Ground Morning Glory
Morning glories that hug the ground? Meet Ground Morning Glory, with its cheerful blue flowers.
This ground cover flourishes in the shade, adding a pop of color to tree-filled areas. It’s perfect for those who want a touch of sky in their garden.
Easy to care for, Ground Morning Glory just needs a bit of sun and regular watering. It’s the cheerful companion that turns any garden into a sunny delight.
28. Wild Strawberry
Berries underfoot? Wild Strawberry, with its tiny red delights, offers a sweet surprise.
This ground cover thrives in the shade, where its small berries and lush leaves create a charming scene. It’s perfect for those who love a touch of the unexpected.
Easy to maintain, Wild Strawberry requires minimal care and brings a taste of the wild to your backyard. It’s the playful addition that makes your garden a berry delightful place.
29. Epimedium
Ever seen a plant that dances with light? Epimedium, with its delicate yellow flowers, does just that.
This ground cover loves the shade, where it adds a touch of elegance and whimsy. It’s perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life.
With minimal care, Epimedium keeps weeds away while adding a splash of color. It’s the elegant choice for a garden that exudes charm and grace.