35 Easy-Care Ground Cover Plants for Every Garden

Groundcovers are your secret weapon for filling in garden gaps, keeping weeds in check, and adding a splash of color without the hassle. Whether you’ve got a sunny slope or a shady nook that could use a little love, there’s a plant for that. I’ve rounded up 35 of the best easy-care ground cover plants for just about every situation. From the sun worshippers to the shade dwellers, flowering beauties to evergreens, there’s something here for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just starting out, these plants will keep your garden looking its best with minimal effort.

Easy Care Ground Cover Plants to Grow in Your Garden

For those new to ground cover plants, see our in-depth guide to the various types and classifications of ground cover plants.

1. Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum)

Creeping thyme is a garden favorite. It spreads low with fragrant, tiny leaves that smell great underfoot. It’s hardy and drought-tolerant and blooms small purple or pink flowers in summer. Varieties like ‘Magic Carpet’ give a splash of color while needing little care.

Growing Zones: 4-9
Flowering Months: June-August
Colors: Purple, Pink
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Full Sun
Height/Spread: 2-3 in / 12-18 in
Where to Plant: Borders, Rock Gardens, Between Pavers

2. Sedum (Sedum spp.)

Sedums are your go-to succulents for a tough ground cover that doesn’t need much water. They come in all shapes and sizes, from ‘Dragon’s Blood’ with red foliage to ‘Angelina’ with bright yellow-green leaves. Perfect for dry, rocky spots where other plants struggle.

Growing Zones: 3-9
Flowering Months: July-September
Colors: Yellow, Pink, Red, White
When to Plant: Spring, Summer
Sunlight: Full Sun
Height/Spread: 4-12 in / 12-24 in
Where to Plant: Rock Gardens, Slopes, Containers

3. Irish Moss (Sagina subulata)

Irish moss creates a soft, green carpet, ideal for moist, shady areas. It hugs the ground closely and blooms tiny white flowers in summer. It’s like nature’s velvet—excellent between stepping stones or along garden edges.

Growing Zones: 4-7
Flowering Months: May-June
Colors: White
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Height/Spread: 1-2 in / 12 in
Where to Plant: Between Pavers, Groundcover, Shaded Areas

4. Scotch Moss (Sagina subulata ‘Aurea’)

This is Irish moss’s golden cousin, with a slightly brighter personality. Its lime-yellow foliage adds a pop of color to the dark corners of the garden. Despite its delicate appearance, it’s surprisingly hardy and happy in the shade.

Growing Zones: 4-7
Flowering Months: May-June
Colors: White, Yellow-Green Foliage
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Height/Spread: 1-2 in / 12 in
Where to Plant: Pathways, Shaded Areas, Rock Gardens

5. Blue Star Creeper (Isotoma fluviatilis)

Blue Star Creeper spreads quickly and produces a charming sprinkle of tiny blue flowers. It’s great for filling in between pavers, in rock gardens, or as a lawn alternative. Low-growing and fast-spreading, it’s as tough as it is pretty.

Growing Zones: 5-9
Flowering Months: Spring-Summer
Colors: Blue, White
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Height/Spread: 2-4 in / 18 in
Where to Plant: Between Pavers, Groundcover, Lawns

6. Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia)

Creeping Jenny is like the over-enthusiastic cousin at a family reunion—it spreads fast! Its bright yellow-green foliage spills beautifully over the edges, especially in moist areas. ‘Aurea’ is a particularly eye-catching variety.

Growing Zones: 3-9
Flowering Months: June-July
Colors: Yellow, Green Foliage
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Height/Spread: 2-4 in / 12-18 in
Where to Plant: Edges, Groundcover, Containers

7. Mazus (Mazus reptans)

Mazus is a cheerful little groundcover that spreads into a lush green mat. It throws out small lavender flowers in spring and thrives in moist soils. It’s great for filling shady, damp spots that most plants avoid.

Growing Zones: 4-9
Flowering Months: May-July
Colors: Purple, White
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Height/Spread: 2 in / 12-18 in
Where to Plant: Moist Areas, Between Pavers, Shady Borders

8. Corsican Mint (Mentha requienii)

This tiny ground cover gives off a fresh, minty scent when you walk on it. It’s perfect for small spaces or between stones, staying low and lush. Plus, it’s resilient enough to handle a bit of foot traffic.

Growing Zones: 6-9
Flowering Months: Summer
Colors: Purple, Green
When to Plant: Spring
Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Height/Spread: 1-2 in / 6-12 in
Where to Plant: Between Pavers, Containers, Shady Gardens

9. Creeping Charlie (Glechoma hederacea)

Creeping Charlie is a tough, fast-spreading groundcover that easily handles shade and partial sun. Its rounded, scalloped leaves and charming purple-blue flowers in spring make it a solid option for shady areas or naturalizing between pavers.

Growing Zones: 3-10
Flowering Months: April-June
Colors: Purple, Blue
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Partial Sun to Full Shade
Height/Spread: 2-4 in / 12-18 in
Where to Plant: Shady Borders, Between Pavers

10. Vinca Minor (Periwinkle)

Periwinkle is the workhorse of groundcovers, with glossy evergreen leaves and perky purple flowers. It spreads without fuss and thrives in the shade where grass gives up. ‘Bowles’ variety is especially popular for its larger blooms.

Growing Zones: 4-9
Flowering Months: April-June
Colors: Purple, Blue, White
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Full Sun to Full Shade
Height/Spread: 4-6 in / 18-24 in
Where to Plant: Shaded Areas, Under Trees, Borders

11. Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans)

Ajuga’s got some visual intrigue with its colorful leaves and spikes of blue flowers. It loves shady spots and quickly forms dense mats that crowd out weeds. ‘Chocolate Chip’ is a fun variety with bronze foliage, perfect for adding interest to dark corners.

Growing Zones: 3-10
Flowering Months: April-May
Colors: Blue, Purple, Pink
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Full Sun to Full Shade
Height/Spread: 4-6 in / 12-24 in
Where to Plant: Shaded Areas, Borders, Under Trees

12. Lamb’s Ear (Stachys byzantina)

Lamb’s Ear feels just like it sounds—soft and fuzzy. This silvery plant is both drought-tolerant and kid-friendly, perfect for adding texture to your garden. It’s an excellent full-sun ground cover option.

Growing Zones: 4-9
Flowering Months: June-July
Colors: Silver-Green Foliage, Purple Flowers
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Full Sun
Height/Spread: 6-12 in / 12-24 in
Where to Plant: Borders, Edges, Dry Gardens

13. Dianthus (Dianthus spp.)

Dianthus, or “pinks,” are low-maintenance charmers with clove-scented flowers. Varieties like ‘Firewitch’ bloom in brilliant shades, offering neat mounds of color. They are perfect for edging or small areas where you want fragrance and beauty.

Growing Zones: 3-9
Flowering Months: May-June
Colors: Pink, Red, White
When to Plant: Spring
Sunlight: Full Sun
Height/Spread: 6-12 in / 6-12 in
Where to Plant: Borders, Edging, Containers

14. Heuchera (Coral Bells)

Heuchera’s colorful foliage steals the show. Shades of purple, bronze, and green make it great for borders or shade gardens. The ‘Palace Purple’ variety is a standout, and it’s hard to beat for minimal care.

Growing Zones: 4-9
Flowering Months: June-August
Colors: Purple, Green, Bronze, Pink Flowers
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Height/Spread: 12-18 in / 12-24 in
Where to Plant: Shady Gardens, Borders, Containers

15. Liriope (Liriope muscari)

Liriope looks like grass but with a fun twist—it has spikes of purple flowers in late summer. It’s great for edging or mass plantings. ‘Big Blue’ is the go-to variety for its upright, vigorous growth.

Growing Zones: 5-10
Flowering Months: August-September
Colors: Purple, White Flowers, Green Foliage
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Height/Spread: 12-18 in / 12-24 in
Where to Plant: Borders, Edging, Shady Areas

16. Hellebore (Helleborus spp.)

Stinking Hellebore (Helleborus foetidus)

Hellebores flower in winter when everything else is hiding. Their leathery leaves stay green year-round, making them a strong groundcover for shady spots. Try ‘Winter Jewels’ for its knockout blooms.

Growing Zones: 4-9
Flowering Months: January-March
Colors: White, Pink, Purple, Green
When to Plant: Fall
Sunlight: Partial Shade to Full Shade
Height/Spread: 12-18 in / 12-24 in
Where to Plant: Woodland Gardens, Shady Borders

17. Sweet Woodruff (Galium odoratum)

White Sweet Woodruff ground cover flowers

Sweet Woodruff is a sweet-smelling groundcover, perfect for shady, damp areas. Its small white flowers add a delicate touch, and it’s excellent for naturalizing under trees. It’s like a peaceful woodland walk in plant form.

Growing Zones: 4-8
Flowering Months: April-May
Colors: White
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Partial Shade to Full Shade
Height/Spread: 6-12 in / 12-18 in
Where to Plant: Under Trees, Shady Areas, Moist Areas

18. Dead Nettle (Lamium maculatum)

Lamium is one of the few groundcovers that thrive in deep shade. Its silvery variegated leaves and small pink or white flowers light up darker corners. ‘Beacon Silver’ is a favorite variety for its almost metallic sheen.

Growing Zones: 3-8
Flowering Months: May-July
Colors: Pink, White
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Partial Shade to Full Shade
Height/Spread: 6-8 in / 12-24 in
Where to Plant: Shady Areas, Groundcover, Borders

19. Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata)

Creeping phlox turns into a carpet of color in spring, with blooms in shades of pink, purple, and white. It’s perfect for sunny banks or garden edges. ‘Emerald Blue’ and ‘Candy Stripe’ are popular for their bright blooms.

Growing Zones: 3-9
Flowering Months: April-May
Colors: Pink, Purple, White
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Full Sun
Height/Spread: 4-6 in / 12-24 in
Where to Plant: Slopes, Edges, Rock Gardens

20. Hardy Geranium (Geranium sanguineum)

Hardy geraniums are reliable bloomers that return year after year with minimal fuss. The ‘Bloody Cranesbill’ variety stands out for its deep pink flowers and finely divided foliage. It’s a cheerful addition to sunny borders or rock gardens.

Growing Zones: 4-9
Flowering Months: May-August
Colors: Pink, Purple
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Height/Spread: 12-18 in / 12-24 in
Where to Plant: Rock Gardens, Borders, Edges

21. Epimedium (Epimedium spp.)

Epimedium, often called barrenwort, is a beautiful, shade-loving plant. Its heart-shaped leaves are often tinged with red, producing delicate spring flowers. It’s tough and spreads slowly, making it ideal for woodland gardens.

Growing Zones: 5-9
Flowering Months: April-May
Colors: Pink, Yellow, White
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Partial Shade to Full Shade
Height/Spread: 6-12 in / 12-18 in
Where to Plant: Woodland Gardens, Shady Borders, Under Trees

22. Golden Groundsel (Packera aurea)

Golden Groundsel brings bright yellow flowers to the garden in early summer. It thrives in damp, shady spots and spreads steadily without being invasive. It is a good choice for naturalizing areas or woodland edges.

Growing Zones: 3-8
Flowering Months: May-June
Colors: Yellow
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Partial Shade to Full Shade
Height/Spread: 12-24 in / 12-18 in
Where to Plant: Shady Gardens, Moist Areas, Naturalizing

23. Pachysandra (Pachysandra terminalis)

Pachysandra is a classic evergreen groundcover that handles shade like a champ. Its glossy leaves form a dense, weed-proof mat, making it ideal for low-maintenance areas. ‘Green Carpet’ is a top variety for its rich, deep green foliage.

Growing Zones: 4-8
Flowering Months: April-May
Colors: White, Green Foliage
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Partial Shade to Full Shade
Height/Spread: 6-12 in / 12-18 in
Where to Plant: Shady Areas, Under Trees, Borders

24. Japanese Spurge (Pachysandra terminalis)

This evergreen is practically unkillable in the shade. It slowly spreads to form a dense mat, perfect for low-maintenance ground cover in tricky spots. It’s not flashy, but it gets the job done.

Growing Zones: 4-8
Flowering Months: April-May
Colors: White, Green Foliage
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Partial Shade to Full Shade
Height/Spread: 6-12 in / 12-18 in
Where to Plant: Shaded Areas, Borders, Slopes

25. Hosta (Hosta spp.)

Hostas are the kings of the shade garden. They come in every size and color you can imagine, from tiny miniatures to massive, dinner plate-sized leaves. ‘Patriot’ and ‘Blue Mouse Ears’ are crowd favorites for their distinctive looks.

Growing Zones: 3-9
Flowering Months: July-August
Colors: Green, Blue, Variegated Foliage
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Partial Shade to Full Shade
Height/Spread: 6-36 in / 12-48 in
Where to Plant: Shady Borders, Under Trees, Containers

26. Lady’s Mantle (Alchemilla mollis)

Lady’s Mantle has lovely scalloped leaves that catch rain like little jewels. It’s happiest in part shade and spreads gently, making it perfect for borders. Its frothy yellow flowers are a cheerful bonus in early summer.

Growing Zones: 3-8
Flowering Months: June-July
Colors: Yellow-Green Flowers, Green Foliage
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Partial Shade to Full Sun
Height/Spread: 12-18 in / 12-24 in
Where to Plant: Borders, Shaded Areas, Edges

27. Christmas Fern (Polystichum acrostichoides)

Christmas Fern is a reliable, evergreen fern for shady areas. Its dark green fronds stay fresh year-round, adding texture and interest. It’s low-key, unfussy, and great for woodland gardens.

Growing Zones: 3-9
Flowering Months: N/A (Fern)
Colors: Green Foliage
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Partial Shade to Full Shade
Height/Spread: 12-24 in / 12-36 in
Where to Plant: Woodland Gardens, Shady Areas, Moist Spots

28. Sweet Fern (Comptonia peregrina)

Sweet Fern is a shrub with fragrant, fern-like leaves. It’s drought-tolerant and works well in poor soil, making it ideal for tough spots. Its unusual leaves give it a fun, textured look.

Growing Zones: 2-6
Flowering Months: May-June
Colors: Green Foliage
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Height/Spread: 24-36 in / 24-48 in
Where to Plant: Slopes, Dry Areas, Poor Soils

29. Groundcover Rose (Rosa spp.)

Groundcover roses are low-growing, spreading shrubs that bloom all summer long. They’re surprisingly tough and require little pruning or care. Varieties like ‘Flower Carpet’ are perfect for sunny slopes or beds.

Growing Zones: 4-9
Flowering Months: June-September
Colors: Pink, Red, White, Yellow
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Full Sun
Height/Spread: 12-36 in / 24-60 in
Where to Plant: Slopes, Borders, Sunny Gardens

30. Creeping Juniper (Juniperus horizontalis)

Creeping juniper is a low-growing evergreen with needle-like foliage that spreads wide. It’s drought-tolerant and thrives in poor soil, making it perfect for sunny, dry spots. ‘Blue Rug’ is a favorite for its silvery-blue foliage.

Growing Zones: 3-9
Flowering Months: N/A (Evergreen)
Colors: Blue-Green Foliage
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Full Sun
Height/Spread: 6-12 in / 6-10 ft
Where to Plant: Slopes, Dry Areas, Rock Gardens

31. Plumbago (Ceratostigma plumbaginoides)

Plumbago is a late-summer bloomer with bright blue flowers and red-tinged fall foliage. It’s a great ground cover for sunny or partially shaded areas and spreads steadily without being a bully.

Growing Zones: 5-9
Flowering Months: July-September
Colors: Blue, Red Fall Foliage
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Height/Spread: 6-12 in / 12-24 in
Where to Plant: Slopes, Borders, Rock Gardens

32. Ice Plant (Delosperma cooperi)

The ice plant is a succulent groundcover that thrives in dry, sunny spots where most plants would wilt. Its fleshy leaves and bright, daisy-like flowers add a splash of color, particularly in pinks and purples. ‘Table Mountain’ is a popular choice for its ability to handle poor soil while putting on a great show.

Growing Zones: 5-9
Flowering Months: June-September
Colors: Pink, Purple
When to Plant: Spring, Summer
Sunlight: Full Sun
Height/Spread: 3-6 in / 12-24 in
Where to Plant: Rock Gardens, Dry Areas, Slopes

33. Snow-in-Summer (Cerastium tomentosum)

Snow-in-Summer is a fast-growing, low-maintenance groundcover with silvery-gray foliage that pairs beautifully with its white, starry flowers. It thrives in full sun and poor, dry soil, making it a perfect option for rock gardens or dry slopes. It’s not shy about spreading, so give it room to roam.

Growing Zones: 3-7
Flowering Months: May-June
Colors: White, Silver Foliage
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Full Sun
Height/Spread: 6-12 in / 12-24 in
Where to Plant: Slopes, Rock Gardens, Borders

34. Woolly Thyme (Thymus pseudolanuginosus)

Woolly thyme is all about soft texture, forming a fuzzy mat that’s delightful to touch. It’s a drought-tolerant groundcover that does well between stepping stones or as a lawn alternative in sunny areas. It won’t take over, but it fills in gaps beautifully and doesn’t mind a little foot traffic.

Growing Zones: 5-8
Flowering Months: June-July
Colors: Pink, Lavender
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Full Sun
Height/Spread: 1-3 in / 12-18 in
Where to Plant: Between Pavers, Rock Gardens, Pathways

35. Purple Wintercreeper (Euonymus fortunei)

Purple wintercreeper is an evergreen with purple-tinged leaves that add a splash of color, especially in cooler weather. It’s tough and adaptable, tolerating various conditions, from sun to partial shade. Its spreading nature makes it great for slopes, but keep an eye on it in case it gets too ambitious.

Growing Zones: 5-9
Flowering Months: May-June
Colors: Green, Purple-Tinged Foliage
When to Plant: Spring, Fall
Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Height/Spread: 6-12 in / 12-36 in
Where to Plant: Slopes, Borders, Groundcover

Andrew Gaumond

Editorial Director | andrew@petalrepublic.com | Full Bio

Andrew is the Editorial Director at Petal Republic. He holds a BSc degree in Plant Sciences and has trained professionally at leading floristry schools in London and Paris. In amongst overseeing a global editorial team, Andrew's a passionate content creator around all things flowers, floral design, gardening, and houseplants.

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