Ground covers are spreading or mounding plants that cover most or all of the soil surface. Small white bell-like flowers appear in the spring where they are famed for their strong scent. In southern Texas, Turks cap has evergreen foliage and is tolerant of heat and drought. Plant firespike in a shady frost-free Texas garden landscape if you want to add a splash of vibrant red colors. These plants are known for their ability to grow well in low-light conditions and can help prevent soil erosion while adding visual interest to your garden. Damianita my favorite native perennial is attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds, but not deer. This beautiful ground cover will fill in all of those bare spots in your yard but make it looks well-manicured and intentional. Check our plant database for more ideas! Compared to other plants that you can use for green ground cover, the Corsican mint needs a warmer climate. . Palm Trees Houston: 5 Beautiful Varieties, What Planting Zone is Illinois in? You will also get top tips on where to grow these Texas shade plants. This ground cover looks gorgeous planted along sidewalks and flower beds, with its bright green leaves. The parent, Mexican petunia, is invasive. Related article: Nandina Plant Care and Growing Guide. Its height varies from one to two feet. Searching for a tree to provide your garden or home with some much needed shade? It is available in dark green, yellow-green, or even blue-green foliage that thrives in moist soil but is also drought-tolerant. The ground-hugging broad leaves grow to form lush bedding around trees, where there is little sun, or to cover shaded slopes. Many are WaterSaver Landscape Coupon eligible. After blooming, the small flowers give way to vibrantly colored red berries. One of the striking features of Hostas is their fragrant flowers. Generally, ground cover plants for shade are hardy types of creeping or spreading plants that are green all year long. English Ivy. The Creeping Buttercup (Ranunculus repens) is flowering low-maintenance ground cover that flowers every spring and loves the shade. Camellias bloom in shades of pink, apricot, white and red. Instead of worrying about mowing the grass, ground covers can replace certain areas of your yard that may be difficult to access or don't have enough natural light to grow grass properly. Lamb's Ear is a fast-growing and widespread ground cover. Flowering ground cover plants can transform pathways, accent garden features, or grow where there is little sun. You can avoid those major roots of the trees, and then put the shade-tolerant groundcovers. It may be time to forget turf and move on to something thats drought hardy, water efficient and environmentally friendly: ground covers. Many types of barrenroot are planted for their nice leaves, more so than for their blooms, although the jester's-hat shape of Epimedium pubigerum is very nice. With blades thinner than those of liriope, mondo grass grows in clumps from rhizomes in USDA zones 7 to 11. Impatiens walleriana (in the picture) is a shade-loving species of impatiens that thrive in filtered sunlight or dappled shaded areas. Apply at your nearest community location to join our incredible team! It also does well in both sunshine and shade. For this reason, it is considered an invasive species in some places, especially areas of the Northeast and Northwest. Please read on to find which plants will flower, despite only getting an hour or two of sunlight daily. Shade plants are a staple part of any low-water gardening or Xeriscaping plan, and some shade plants can be just as beautiful as their sun-loving cousins. Firespike is a flowering bush in south Texas that will bloom best in part sun to partial shade. These shade-tolerant shrubs have showy flowers with ruffled petals and double blooms. Find Out Today, Can An Avocado Tree Grow In A Pot (yes + How To). This plant blooms in late spring and bears delicate, white flower clusters. Damianita. Its an opportunity for something different. The parent, Mexican petunia, is invasive. Size: 6 to 8 ft. (1.8 2.4 m) tall and wide. The small plant also accents other garden features and looks good in a rock garden. All parts of the plant are toxic and may cause digestive upset or skin irritations. Leaves cluster at the ends of stems that stand six to 12 inches tall. Survives on rainwater and three or four monthly supplements. It resembles liriope, but has thinner leaves. Creeping, clumping, or trailing plants are good landscaping solutions that generally require little maintenance. Coupon eligible. Creeping thyme is an excellent drought-tolerant ground cover for Texas as it prefers well-drained, sandy soil and full sun. The bright yellow flowers are around an inch in diameter (2.5 cm) and provide a splash of color when planted under trees, shrubs, or in other shady places. Read our, 25 Low-Maintenance Ground Cover Plants for Sun and Shade, 32 Deer-Resistant Perennials and Herbs to Plant Outside, 18 Perennial Flowers That Bloom in Spring, Summer and Fall, 14 Best Evergreen Shrubs for Lovely Landscaping, 10 Best Deer-Resistant Shrubs for Landscaping, 11 Best Shade Plants to Grow Along a North-Facing Wall, 15 Best Plants for Drought-Tolerant Gardens, 35 Types of Orange Flowers: Identification & Photos, ground cover with a reputation for invasiveness. This plant does well in Texas due to its high light and little water tolerance. (USDA Plant Hardiness Zones), Why is My Phlox Not Flowering? Cast iron plant this is a shade loving green foliage plant that requires no care and no supplementary water to survive. You also won't have to worry about any issues with pests or disease. So they're an excellent ground cover for low light areas in zones 4-8. It's an excellent choice for planting under trees. USDA Zone 9: Southern tip of Texas from San Antonio to the Gulf Coast. Most thyme plants are perennials with pointed, blue-green leaves that softly blanket the ground. Epimedium versicolor is a semi-evergreen perennial cultivar (evergreen in mild winter climates). English ivy is very good. But this virtue can lead to problems, since some shade-loving plants can overrun a landscape and may even escape a garden, naturalize, and threaten native plant species. Average minimum winter temperatures are 10F to 20F. Extension programs serve people of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex . Ajuga this low growing perennial with blue or purple flowers is perfect for pervious patios and borders along paths. This is out-of-the-box thinking and we have seen a few and hope for more examples in San Antonio. Additionally, you can plant the shrub along a foundation line or as a container plant for a deck area. After all, most plants, especially flowering ones, require some sunlight to thrive. This is not a plant you can plant and forget. Buying ground cover plants in gallon containers assures a greater immediate impact and allows spacing them farther apart. These are just few examples of ground covers. However, this grass type of ground cover thrives better in full sun rather than shade. Lily of the Valley produces large leaves that can be up to 10 in length (25 cm). Skullcap there are three different species with pink, blue, and purple flowers; used very successfully at SAWS & SARA headquarters. It is easy to grow this plant from seeds, and blooms should appear within a few months of being sown. Firespike is a tall, showy, drought-tolerant, evergreen shrub with erect flowering stems and clusters of bright red tubular flowers. Hostas are shade loving perennial ground cover plants that produce stunning flowers. Other similar plants for low light situations include white variegated Dianella or variegated flax lily, Dwarf Fountain Grass, Giant Liriope and Aztec Grass. It does well in Texas, tolerating both full and partial shade. This fern will tolerate more sun . Zones: 4-8. But this is a ground cover. Compared to other low-ground creeping shrubs, this variety is very drought resistant. Pinwheel Jasmine ( Gardenia jasminoides 'Pinwheel') This article identifies the best shade plants for growing in the Lone Star State. It grows well in soil and shade and has a starry pink flower. It also looks stunning with its white flowers and evergreen foliage cascading over a hanging basket. He is the publisher of Neil Sperry's GARDENS Magazine. As a member of the daisy family (Asteraceae), this delicate white petaled flower with bright yellow centers is a low-growing, perennial ground cover. In some areas, the invasive nature of creeping buttercups causes them to be listed as pests. Inland Sea Oats are a grass-like plant that looks very similar to the oats familiar to us as a crop, but theyre a hearty grass-like plant that settles well underneath trees or in low-sunlight areas. This easy-keeper annual shrugs off deer, rabbits, and even drought, putting forth its best flowering show in hot weather. Which ones am I talking about? Cut them back by half after flowering. Coupon eligible. This spreading plant also grows well in full sunshine. It is also relatively easy to maintain and is resistant to animals such as deer and rabbits. Is it a weed? For the brightest color, this plant prefers full sun to partial shade. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. 8. So, this may not be the best type of ground-covering plant if you only have a small garden. You need to care for the Corsican mint properly especially during the warm summer months. Silver ponyfoot this South America native loves sun and heat. This low-ground cover plant grows to about 12 (30 cm) high. It does best in full sun for vibrant color. Mazus ( Mazaceae, sometimes called creeping mazus) is a low-growing, fast-spreading ground cover, although it's best suited for areas of the garden that see lighter foot traffic. Turk's Cap (Malvaviscus arboreus var. Even St. Augustine grass (Stenotaphrum secundatum), hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 8 through 10 and the most shade tolerant, needs four hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive. The Bloody Cranesbill (Geranium sanguineum) is a hardy type of flowering ground cover plant that belongs to the Geranium family. Its stiff, leafy branches grow about 6-12 inches, and purple flowers sprout directly from the stems over the summer. Variegated ginger is an ornamental ginger plant that tolerates partial shade and can be grown outdoors in south Texas. A great container plant. Many of the best are hybrids. 6. This perennial plant is often seen growing in shady woodlands or on partially-shaded slopes. Shade-Tolerant Groundcovers Your sales reps at Calloway's Nursery, talk to one of the Texas-certified nursery professionals. Ive used that term three or four times. Local oak trees that thrive in South Texas are able to stand up to the areas high heat and low-water conditions. Mondo grass is a perennial ground cover that grows well in partial shade or full sun. In my opinion, its not deer-resistant so use only in fenced areas or in the city. The recommended USDA hardiness zones for hostas are 3 8. Several varieties of camellias are spectacular evergreen flowering shrubs that grow in all areas of Texas, apart from the Panhandle. Its also best to keep it moderately watered since it tolerates dry conditions quite well. For this reason, the painted fern is more popular in landscaping. Brass Buttons (Leptinella) Another shade ground cover that has really unique foliage is known as brass buttons. The fast-growing Bishops Weed grows well in temperate climates and is found in Europe, North America, Australia, and New Zealand. Your local university extension office is usually the best place for information. This herbaceous clumping plant thrives in the warm regions of Texas. Also known as a plantain lily, hosta's heart-shaped or oval leaves appear in blues, greens, and creamy variegated colors. Of course, they die to the ground in the winter, but theyre very pretty. Our specialized formula nourishes every blade of grass for a healthier, fuller, lush landscape. Let them show you some of the best. Oakleaf hydrangea grows well as an accent shrub, hedge, or backdrop to a mixed bed. The flowers can bloom from spring to fall in pink, purple, red, and white varieties. Measure the area to determine how to space the plants you bought. That means trimming only three to four times a year, if that. They grow best in USDA hardiness zones 4-9. A very common gardening error is to think that a plant that "tolerates" shade will grow in complete dense shade. The attractive features of the shade-loving plant are its vibrant red hibiscus-like flowers and heart-shaped leaves. It needs full sun, but otherwise it is a tough and reliable plant, thriving in a wide assortment of soils. In addition to being easy to grow and find, they also root as they spread to hold the soil and don't need a lot of maintenance. Growing Conditions: Full sun to part shade and moist, well-drained soil. Creeping liriope has a very bad reputation in the Southeast U.S., though it is less troublesome in the northern part of its hardiness range. Cranesbill is extremely easy to grow but needs well drained soil. Dwarf Mexican petunia, aka 'Katy' petunia - the small perennial with the violet or pink flowers is a common ground cover in south central Texas. I do not use dwarf mondo grass in great areas, large areas because it is just too slow-growing, but its very pretty in small areas. Spectacular blue, red, pink, or white blooms smother moss pink's needle-like foliage in spring. Actually, this ground cover plant provides a thick dense carpet of foliage in most soils. There are 19 of them in the metroplex and a couple in Houston under the name of Cornelius, wonderful places to shop. But don't be deceived by its good looks. Add to Favorites . This type of spreading plant grows well in USDA hardiness zones 4 8. Bunchberry (Cornus canadensis) is a native plant in northern regions of North America. Remember, though, that some types of hosta need a bit more sun to achieve their best color. Although other types of geraniums are annuals, the trailing sanguineum variety is a perennial. It is characterized by its large, deeply lobed leaves, large conical clusters of white flowers, and rich cinnamon-brown fall colors. Corsican mint can be an invasive ground cover plant in warm climates. This shrub has a rounded habit and can be used as an accent plant, flowering hedge, or foundation planting. The Japanese pachysandra (Pachysandra terminalis) is a low-growing leafy evergreen plant that is good for ground cover under shrubs or in other shady parts of your garden. The creeping ground cover grows to a height of 19 (50 cm) with broad leaves growing on the stems. Coupon eligible. Does not exceed 12 inches in height. Epimedium cultivars also produce small clusters of flowers in a variety of different colors. Unlike other varieties of the mint family, this very low-growing variety loves the shade. Size: 8 to 10 ft. (2.4 3 m) tall and 1 to 2 ft. (0.3 0.6 m) wide. Select one of the plants listed here for an addition that will last for years to come. The plant in the picture is the Lamium maculatum cultivar. When mature, it forms such a dense mat that weeds cannot penetrate it. Some varieties of Creeping Buttercup are low growing varieties that form a soft green mat over the ground. Fortunately, not invasive here as in the Pacific Northwest. Santolina an extremely drought-tolerant plant that comes in green and gray varieties, both with yellow flowers. This is the one that gets about five or six inches tall. Its not a problem. DIY Craft Ideas: How to Make Bunny Themed Planters. Below are the best picks for ground cover plants in Texas. Ground covers play an essential role in our ecosystem, providing diversity in many environments. Frog Fruit a new ground cover that is gaining in popularity. Creeping juniper is a favorite for planting on slopes. Growing 6 to 12 inches high in dense mats, it can overtake areas where growing conditions are idealdappled shade under large trees. Get started on your lawn for the season! Size: To 1 inch tall and 1 foot wide. It has a low maintenance requirement and can thrive in hot climates. Expect liriope to grow between 9 and 18 (22 to 40 cm) tall and spread up to 24 (60 cm). 10 great groundcovers for shady spots. In addition to the floral blooms, the variegated and silvery foliage is often the main feature of this plant. Heavenly bamboo is a tall flowering ornamental shrub that blooms well in partial shade. Dwarf Mexican petunia, aka Katy petunia the small perennial with the violet or pink flowers is a common ground cover in south central Texas. Hostas like to grow in the shade and may reach a height of 2 ft. (0.6 m). The ground cover plant thrives in full to partial shade and flowers every spring when new leaves appear. Allegheny Pachysandra is a drought tolerant ground cover plant for shade, The Allegheny Pachysandra (Pachysandra procumbens) is a popular type of perennial ground cover plant due to its low height and dense green foliage. Japanese spurge (Pachysandra terminalis) requires total shade; its foliage turns yellow when exposed to sun. Epimedium pubigerumis one of the taller types (24 inches); it bears white flowers with yellow centers. Texas sedge SAWS Conservation personnel are excited about this native in the landscape. Try out this hardy plant if youre new to gardening or dont have much time to dedicate to the practice. Great groundcover for the sun. Golden Oregano is another creeping vine that is ideal in Texas, thanks to its resilience. There are many varieties of ground cover plants for any type of garden. Ferns are generally great choices for shady areas. The hydrangea flowers can be blue, lilac, purple, red, white, pink or multi-colored, depending on the cultivar and soil type. Because this is a trailing variety of plant, you can use it in hanging baskets or allow it to creep along the ground. Dwarf Mexican petunia, aka 'Katy' petunia - the small perennial with the violet or pink flowers is a common ground cover in south central Texas. a native grass for large swaths of backyard understory. It also performs well in patios and containers. this low growing perennial with blue or purple flowers is perfect for pervious patios and borders along paths. If you don't exactly have a green thumb but what to add some color and interest to your landscaping, then consider ground cover. Generally, English ivy features dark-green, pointed foliage and grows to 6 to 10 inches tall when used as a ground cover. Creeping Juniper is a low-growing shrub that creates a mat of evergreen branches. The grass-like flowering plant is identified by its strap-like, slender green leaves, erect stems of lavender or pink flowering spikes, and spreading habit. Hostas grow from rhizomes. Use as a shrub border, back-of-bed accent plant, informal hedge, or foundation planting. Like carpet bugleweed, Japanese pachysandra prefers fertile, well-drained soil. There are a number of different varieties of ground cover Hosta plants that grow just as well in the shade as in the sun. And it has weed control, sending out chemicals that inhibit their growth. This landscaping plant is also sensitive to drought. These small evergreen plants are very low maintenance and, unlike a lawn, dont require regular mowing. Dead nettle, or Lamium, is considered an invasive species as it will quickly spread and fill an area in your landscape. Steve Bender, also known as The Grumpy Gardener, is an award-winning author, editor, columnist, and speaker with nearly 40 years experience as Garden Editor, Senior Writer, and Editor-at-Large for Southern Living. Learn tips for creating your most beautiful home and garden ever. Average minimum winter temperatures are 0F to 10F. Adding a ground cover with seasonal blooms or an interesting texture can separate the area from typical grass. Epimedium x rubrum produces flowers with three colors. You can also plant this native small, fast-growing plant along a foundation line or fence or brighten a mixed bed. Carpet bugleweed does best in fertile, well-drained soil with good air circulationwet soil leads to rot. The clear benefit of using ground covers instead of grass is. Although known as a climbing vine, English ivy (Hedera helix) roots itself wherever it touches the ground. Aug. 17, 2007. Size: 5 to 6 ft. (1.5 2.4 m) tall and wide. For example, the interrupted fern (Osmunda claytoniana) is a tall type (2 to 3 feet). Use the two-inch-tall plants to fill gaps between stepping stones, line borders, or sprawl over rock walls. South Texas Yarrow Yarrow is a plant that produces very tinny blooms that are red, pink, yellow, or white. Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense) is a shade-loving perennial ground cover plant with large glossy green leaves. Creeping thyme belongs to the mint family and has a pleasant scent; while not grown as an herb, it can be used for cooking. my all-time favorite shade perennial that can be used as a ground cover. Epimedium grandiflorum'Rose Queen' has one of the prettier flowers among the barrenroots. Ready to have a shade plants in your home garden? https://www.wildflower.org/collections/collection.php?collection=centex_dry_shade. That said, I do have one pet peeve with a commonly used ground cover: Asiatic jasmine. They look great, edging flower beds, spilling over low retaining walls, or filling rock gardens. , thanks to its high light and little water tolerance ivy features dark-green, pointed foliage and to... Invasive species as it will quickly spread and fill an area in your home garden over rock walls needs. Yarrow Yarrow is a perennial ground cover for Texas as it prefers well-drained, soil. A plantain lily, hosta 's heart-shaped or oval leaves appear in blues, greens, then. 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Quickly spread and fill an area in your landscape complete dense shade local oak that! Can transform pathways, accent garden features, or filling rock GARDENS this very low-growing variety loves the shade types... Clusters of white flowers and heart-shaped leaves small garden different colors, Australia and. Plant the shrub along a foundation line or fence or brighten a mixed bed flower.. 9: southern tip of Texas from San Antonio they & # x27 ; s GARDENS.... Shade-Loving plant are its vibrant red colors leads to rot soil with good air circulationwet soil leads to.. Looks good in a rock garden also does well in temperate climates and is resistant to animals such deer..., leafy branches grow about 6-12 inches, and purple flowers sprout directly from the Panhandle to... A year, if that liriope, mondo grass grows in clumps from rhizomes in USDA zones to... 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