7 Herbaceous perennial groundcovers

This article is all about herbaceous perennial groundcovers. It answers the most common questions customers ask about groundcovers and how to use them. Plus, we include a list of seven Herbaceous Perennial groundcovers along with a few bonus plants. Keep reading to learn more about these useful garden plants.

What is a herbaceous perennial?

Herbaceous perennials are plants that grow vegetation, bloom, seed, and grow back the following year. Though the vegetation dies in winter, the plant will regrow from its roots the following spring and summer.

Annuals are plants that grow vegetation, flower, seed, and die off. Because annuals only last one grow season, they are not recommended for use as a groundcover.

What is a groundcover?

A groundcover is a plant that is low-growing and covers the ground. It may not be able to be seen readily from above. Its purpose is to, as its name implies, cover the ground. Groundcovers also help to prevent soil erosion.

A herbaceous perennial groundcover will return yearly and maintain its low-growing habit.

Why plant a groundcover?

Herbaceous perennial groundcovers are both functional and attractive.

Adding a herbaceous perennial groundcover to your garden can fill in empty patches giving your garden a fuller look. Groundcovers add beauty and can help elevate the overall appearance of your outdoor space.

Functionally, they serve as a means to limit erosion and improve soil health. They also act as a living mulch by keeping your soil moist and limiting the presence of weeds.

Where can I plant groundcovers?

  • Under trees and shrubs to reduce mowing
  • In empty patches in the garden
  • As a lawn replacement
  • Herbaceous perennial groundcovers can serve as a mulch alternative
  • If you want to see them up close, plant them in containers and hanging baskets
  • There are herbaceous perennial groundcovers that grow best in shade, sun, or somewhere in between

7 Herbaceous Perennial Groundcovers

Here is a list of herbaceous perennial groundcovers. Some are flowering, others are foliage plants. This list has a groundcover for every garden. Here is a list of seven herbaceous perennial groundcovers:

Ajuga Reptans

Ajuga reptans has lovely spikes of purple flowers when in bloom. It does well at filling bare patches while eliminating weed growth. Because it prefers full sun, it does best as an edging groundcover or in spaces where it won't be shaded out by other plants. This pollinator friendly groundcover can also make a great plant for hanging baskets.

Zones: 3 to 9

Sun exposure: Full sun

Mature height: up to 8 inches

Water: Average Best for front of borders, containers, and as a groundcover

Check out the Ajuga Reptans product page here

Vinca Minor

Vinca minor is a herbaceous perennial groundcover that has drifts of beautiful, purple flowers. It is a good spreader, so plant it in places you want to fill in quickly. It looks great in borders and can even be grown as a container plant. Additionally, vinca minor attracts pollinators and other beneficial insects.

 

Zones: 4 to 9

Sun exposure: Full sun

Mature height: up to 8 inches

Water: Average

Best for front of borders, containers, and as a groundcover

Check out the Vinca Minor product page here

Fan Clubmoss

This woodland plant thrives in shade. Fan clubmoss is a herbaceous perennial groundcover that can be planted under trees or shrubs. It looks great in woodland gardens and creates and creates a green carpet of texture wherever its planted. Fan clubmoss pairs well with ferns and can be planted in alpine gardens.

Zones: 4 to 9

Sun exposure: part sun to part shade

Mature height: up to 6 inches

Water: average

Best for woodlands, shaded gardens, alpine gardens, under trees or shrubs, and in containers

Check out the Fan Clubmoss product page here

Partridgeberry

The partridgeberry is an evergreen herbaceous perennial groundcover. It has dark, waxy green leaves that add a deep lush appearance to gardens. Because of its trailing vines, the partridgeberry can make an attractive spilling container plant. It also makes excellent decoration for winter when cut.

Zones: 3 to 9

Sun exposure: part sun to part shade

Mature height: up to 4 inches

Water: average Best for woodlands, shaded gardens, under trees or shrubs, and in containers

Check out the Partridgeberry product page here

Wintercreeper

Wintergreen is a herbaceous perennial groundcover that has ovate leaves. It can tolerate a wide range of soils and looks great in woodland gardens. Because it's a good spreader, it can cover a large, bare area quickly. Wintercreeper is low maintenance and reduces weed growth; a benefit to any gardener!

Zones: 3 to 9

Sun exposure: part sun to part shade

Mature height: up to 6 inches

Water: average

Best for woodlands, under trees or shrubs, and in containers

Check out the Wintercreeper product page here

 

European Ginger

The European ginger is a herbaceous perennial groundcover with lush waxy foliage. Despite its name, the European ginger is not edible. It grows in clumps and keeps the soil moist and weed-free. It's low maintenance and will provide season-long interest in your outdoor space

 

Zones: 4 to 8

Sun exposure: part shade to full shade

Mature height: up to 8 inches

Water: medium to wet

Best for woodlands, shaded gardens, under trees or shrubs, and in containers

Check out the European Ginger product page here

Wild Ginger

The wild ginger belongs to the same genus as the European ginger. Its lime green foliage grows in whorls across the ground. This plant does an exceptional job at carpeting bare pots in the garden. Aside from improving soil conditions, it gives a natural look to the garden-- what's not to love?

Zones: 4 to 8

Sun exposure: Full shade

Mature height: up to 6 inches

Water: average to we

tBest for woodlands, shaded gardens, under trees or shrubs, and in containers

Check out the Wild Ginger product page here

Ground Cover Mixed Pack (25 Plants)

If you can't decide on which groundcover you want, or if you like many of them, this option may be for you. Why settle on just one plant?

In this pack, Tennessee Nursery will send you 15 perennial groundcovers. This may include grasses, mosses, and other flowering perennials. Our horticultural specialist will cater the pack to match your USDA growing zone.

Check out the product page for the Ground Cover Mixed Pack (15 Plants) here

Bishop's Weed

While the bishop's weed is not technically a groundcover, it still has a lovely blanket habit like a groundcover. Its foliage grows to around 12 inches and when it blooms, the tall, thin flower stems poke up into the sky at 3 feet or less. It offers interest for most of the year, keeping the soil moist. Also, its striking variegated foliage is eye-catching and creates a sense of depth in the garden.

Zones: 4 to 9

Sun exposure: Sun or shade

Mature height: up to 3 feet

Water: average to wet

Best for woodlands edge, borders, and containers

 

We hope this list has given you some ideas for your garden. Many of these groundcovers can be divided in subsequent years, so few plants will go a long way in time. Having herbaceous perennials in the garden is cost and time effective. Not only does it reduce your time pulling weeds, but it adds fullness to beds and borders with little maintenance.

If you have any questions about herbaceous perennial groundcovers, or any other plants, please reach out to us! We love to talk about plants with anyone who is interested.

Ajuga Reptans - TN Nursery

Ajuga Reptans - Bugleweed

Ajuga Reptans - Bugleweed Plant Ajuga Reptans, sometimes called Bugleweed Plant, is a classic ground-cover perennial with rich foliage and beautiful purple flowers. Gardeners love it because it fights off weeds and makes soils healthier. This low-growing, blooming groundcover plant is popular for several reasons beyond its obvious aesthetic appeal. One benefit is its wildlife-friendliness. The species is adept at attracting pollinators to the garden, making it an excellent addition for homeowners interested in sustainability. Characteristics of Ajuga Reptans - Bugleweed Plant This plant also offers soil stabilization on steep banks and in flood-prone areas. Its long roots grab onto the soil and prevent it from being eroded. Given its hardiness, it requires minimal maintenance.  The plant thrives in numerous soil types and doesn't mind the sun or shade. If left in the ground for long enough, it produces a dense canopy, which helps it fight weeds even more. Ideal Growing Conditions of Ajuga Reptans - Bugleweed Plant This plant prefers well-drained soil. It is hardy and low maintenance for those homeowners who want a plant they don't have to fuss over. Gardeners mostly plant it in loamy or clay soils or other fertile areas. The groundcover can be planted in filtered sun, but it thrives in shade and is drought resistant; its large leaves excel at collecting any light that passes through tree canopies or becomes available earlier or later in the day. Attributes of This Groundcover Low-maintenance ground cover plant with attractive purple flowers Can survive in low-light environments, and direct exposure to the sun Requires occasional pruning and fertilization for healthy spring brooms Suitable for homeowners wanting to create more sustainable gardensGrows to around 1 foot tall under ideal conditions with dense coverage Flowers are this plant's biggest attribute. It is a classic ground-cover perennial with rich foliage and beautiful purple flowers that "shoots" from the center of the plant. Gardeners love it because it fights off weeds and makes soils healthier.  Perfect For Soil Erosion It's popular for several reasons beyond its obvious aesthetic appeal. One benefit is its wildlife-friendliness. The species is adept at attracting pollinators to the garden, making it an excellent addition for homeowners interested in sustainability. It also offers soil stabilization on steep banks and in flood-prone areas. Its long roots grab onto the soil and prevent it from being eroded. Given its hardiness, it requires minimal maintenance. It thrives in numerous soil types and doesn't mind the sun or shade (either is okay). If you leave it in the ground for long enough, it produces a dense canopy, helping it fight weeds even more. Ideal Growing Conditions  You can plant it in full sun, but the plant prefers shade, provided it receives proper watering. Its large leaves excel at collecting any light that passes through tree canopies or becomes available earlier or later in the day. If planting multiple plants, keep them 8 to 12 inches apart. Ajuga Reptans can crowd easily, leading to bulb wastage. It's a super attractive ground cover plant that isn't fussy about soil type or maintenance. Spring Blooms Low-maintenance ground cover plant with attractive purple flowers Can survive in low-light environments and direct exposure to the sun Requires occasional pruning and fertilization for healthy spring brooms Suitable for homeowners wanting to create more sustainable gardens Grows to around 1 foot tall under ideal conditions with dense coverage.

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Vinca Minor Periwinkle - TN Nursery

Vinca Minor

Vinca Minor - Periwinkle Vinca minor or periwinkle, is an evergreen groundcover plant that has delicate purple blooms in Spring and summer and can be maintained year-round with little effort. Easy to care for and adaptable to shade and sun conditions, it forms a dense and textured swathe of foliage and flowers ideal for borders, beds, and shade gardens.   Vinca Minor Plant Characteristics and Growth Its smooth, dark green leaves remain in full display year-round, giving your yard a predictable hue. This perennial comes into bloom in spring with lovely, star-shaped blue-to-violet flowers that provide a splash of color. The flowers bloom early to mid-spring and continue through early summer, attracting bees and butterflies.&nbspThis short-stemmed plant quickly grows into large mats, making it a perfect ground cover between trees or beds. It can be planted quickly and, once established, does not require much upkeep. It grows well in various soils and in partial shade to full sun, though it’s most successful in shady places on well-drained soils. This perennial is resistant to many of the most common garden pests and diseases, so it is an excellent option for those who love keeping their gardens minimal. It needs occasional watering, and its evergreen leaves ensure year-round interest, even in the winter. Long-Lasting Blooms and Lifespan of Vinca Minor Perennial Vines It flowers for a few weeks in the spring, and its evergreen habit keeps it fresh all year. Being perennial, it will recur year after year, providing your garden with lasting grace and minimal upkeep. Here at TN Nursery, we carry only premium plants that will make a lasting impression on your garden and provide you with year-round blooms and lush green foliage. The easy care, long blooming, and evergreen foliage make it an excellent groundcover for gardeners who want a beautiful, easy-care, color-rich, and texture-filled addition to their landscape. Most Asked Questions About This Perennial  Do periwinkle plants come back every year? Yes, they return every Spring and live for decades Do periwinkle like sun or shade? These vine plants thrive in shaded areas Why is it called a graveyard plant? They grow near shaded banks and slopes, often near the woods bear graveyards because most is adjoining wooded areas, to obtain the shade needed. Thus, they got their name as graveyard vines.

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Fan Clubmoss - TN Nursery

Fan Clubmoss

Fan Clubmoss - Diphasiastrum Digitatum Fan Clubmoss is a low-growing, evergreen plant with densely packed, needle-like leaves that form a distinctive, fan-like appearance and often cover forest floors. It is a unique and versatile plant with various landscaping benefits. Its unusual appearance and adaptability make it a popular choice for enhancing the aesthetics and functionality of outdoor spaces. Unlike its name may suggest, it is not a true moss but a primitive vascular plant belonging to the Lycopodiaceae family. It is called running cedar or ground pine and looks like a low-growth coniferous plant. However, it is a clubmoss, which is related to ferns. This non-flowering perennial plant was once commonly found across the eastern portion of North America. However, deforestation has dramatically reduced its presence in the wild. Because of its many notable attributes, this plant is an ideal choice to consider adding to your yard. Fan Clubmoss Looks Like Mini Pine Trees This fascinating plant typically grows up to 10 inches tall and a foot wide in ideal conditions. Its pine-looking branches are out, creating a stunning design up close. From farther away, the ground appears to be blanketed in green. Often, the plant has a dark green base that fades to a yellowish-green hue toward the tips of its leaves, creating a lovely effect. Some people trim the plants into a topiary design to add an ornamental touch to their yard. Control Weeds With Fan Clubmoss This plant is commonly used for ground cover as it proliferates and stays close to the ground. Because the plants can grow densely together, they can block out sunlight from reaching any vegetation attempting to grow underneath it for optimized weed control. This is a highly adaptable plant that can be incorporated in numerous environments. Generally, it will dry out in drought conditions but return with moisture. It Is An Evergreen Groundcover At one time, when the plant thrived in its native habitat, this plant was harvested in the wild and used for winter holiday decorations. With the plant growing in your yard, you can easily snip off a few sprigs to dress up your space with a natural touch. The evergreen leaves can also be added to your home decor throughout the rest of the year, such as in a floral vase for a boost of greenery. Minimize Erosion With It Fan Clubmoss can absorb considerable water, which is beneficial during heavy rainstorms. It can hold ten times its weight in moisture, offering natural protection in areas prone to erosion. How to grow it It prefers partial to full shade and moist but well-drained soil with an added content of organic matter. It grows well in the areas of low temperatures and high humidity.  What are the characteristics of it It is an herbaceous, perennial plant that spreads by creeping stems and tends to form dense sods. This plant grows vigorously and propagates through rhizomes; it is an ideal plant to use in shaded lawns because it establishes slowly.  Where does it best It grows well in acidic to neutral and well-draining soils. The plant grows in shaded environments and prefers cool temperatures.  How fast does it grow It has a slow growth rate of only around 1 to 2 inches a year. Its growth also depends on factors such as moisture, light and quality of the soil.  How to identify it It is recognized by small scale-like leaves situated spirally along the trailing stems. When young, it commonly makes a bright green ground-hugging mat.

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partridgeberry plant - TN Nursery

Partridge Berry

Partridge Berry - Mitchella Repens L. Partridge Berry is a low-growing, trailing evergreen plant with glossy leaves and small, white to pinkish tubular flowers, followed by bright red berries commonly found in woodland settings. It is a charming and low-growing ground cover that offers several benefits when incorporated into landscaping designs. If you're looking for a perennial that will add delicate beauty to your garden all year, look no further than those evergreen groundcovers with delicate red berries in the cold season. Red Berries Near The Holidays Makes Partridge Berry Very Popular This flowering vine has beautiful red berries, bright green leaves, and star-shaped, white flowers. It blossoms in the late spring. As a creeper with long tendrils, it's notable because it doesn't use its tendrils to climb; instead, it creeps along the forest floor. It is native to many forests in eastern North America and has been seen as far north as Canada and south as Florida. The Dark Green Evergreen Leaves Of Partridge Berry This evergreen features small, compact stems under its flowers. Its dark green leaves don't change color or fall on the ground like other plants, so there's no messy cleanup. If you want to attract bees, birds, and other friendly visitors to your garden, you can do it with this attractive, easy-to-grow vine. It Is Resilient Perennial Ground-Cover Despite its delicate appearance, this flowering vine is hardy enough to create groundcover that stays attractive in any season. Its glossy green leaves stand out against the falling brown leaves in the fall. Enjoy the beauty and fragrance of its bright white flowers in spring and summer. The bright red berries will remind you of holly and other winter delights. Grows And Spreads Quickly It is also versatile. Although it grows thick on the ground, you can use it in borders, walkways, paths, or anywhere you want an attractive, hardy cover. It's ideal in rock gardens or other hardscape settings. Once set up in the soil, it spreads out thickly, rooting itself deeply into the soil and creating a thick layer of leaves. Frequently Asked Questions: Where should the plant be grown? These hardy groundcover do best when planted in shade or part shade in moist, drainage soil with plenty of organic matter. They also work well as ground covers in the shade and naturalized gardens.  Is the plant easy to grow? Growing is quite simple and requires little care once it's in the ground. It tolerates drought, spreads very slowly, and makes a lush, evergreen carpet, which is great for the shade.  What makes it such a popular and useful garden plant?  It stays green through the winter and turns red. This keeps the plant ornamental all year long and allows it to be used in rock gardens, forests, and shaded borders.  Can it be planted in pots? Yes, it can be planted in pots if you use well-drained, rich soil and in a partial shade location. This is a great plant for small gardens or those living on patios or balconies.  What are some companion plants for it? Here are some plants that are excellent with these plants: Ferns, hostas, trillium, and mosses work best with partridge berry plants, as they need a dark, wet place.

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European Ginger - TN Nursery

European Ginger

European Ginger - Asarum Europaeum European Ginger is a low-growing ground cover plant that has glossy, heart-shaped leaves and produces small, inconspicuous brownish-purple flowers nestled among its dense, carpet-like foliage. It is a charming and versatile plant with several landscaping benefits. This evergreen perennial herb is native to Europe and is valued for its exotic appearance, low-maintenance nature, and various practical applications in garden design. It creates a pleasant aesthetic while helping keep insects and other pests away. This plant grows low to the ground and is typically used to cover barren areas or protect gardens or other areas you want to keep free of bugs or animals. The European Ginger Is a Shade Ground-Cover When grown in favorable conditions, it can grow over a foot tall. Its green leaves have a leathery texture that can add diversity to your yard or garden. The plant can be a garden border to add natural charm to your property. The green leaves may retain their color depending on the climate in your area. European Ginger Spreads  While this plant grows steadily, given enough space, you can get it to grow even faster by separating the roots into separate areas of your yard or garden to get them to propagate quickly. As a general rule, as long as it is planted in the right spot, you won't have to worry about it growing properly after putting roots into the ground. Disease and Pest Resistant One of the key benefits of this European Ginger is that it won't succumb to disease. Furthermore, aside from slugs or snails, it isn't eaten by other insects or animals, and in numerous instances, it can attract butterflies and other attractive creatures to your property. It is worth noting that harm can be done to the plant if you prune it in the late fall or winter, as the remaining leaves can be vulnerable to burn. Ideally, you will prune it during the summer or early fall to allow the plant to bounce back before colder weather sets in. How is it Unique It's popular for its heart-shaped glossy leaves, which grow into a year-round groundcover. It is a small shrub, so you can use it in the shade of a backyard garden. Where should I plant it in my garden?  It grows best in partially shaded areas with good, draining, fertile soil. It thrives when planted beneath trees, near pathways, and in woodland gardens. How do I Care For it? It requires watering only once a week. Place a layer of mulch to help retain moisture in the soil. You can do a little pruning to keep it neat. Is It a good companion plant Yes! Its dense foliage helps suppress weeds and complements ferns, hostas, and other shade-tolerant plants. Can I grow it in containers? European ginger can easily be grown in containers, making it ideal for patios or small growing areas. Ensure the container has well-drained soil and the plant is placed in the right amount of shade.

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Wild ginger plant - Tn Nursery

Wild Ginger - Asarum

Wild ginger plant - Asarum Canadense Wild ginger plant, Asarum canadense is an excellent, easy plant for shade and does not require much attention. It is most famous for its uniqueness and variety and is perfect for adding color and texture to your landscape. It is simple. It loves a rich, organic soil and grows in part to full shade, making it an ideal companion plant for woodland gardens or shade borders. Once established, this plant needs little maintenance other than frequent watering in dry periods and the pulling of dead leaves to keep it neat.  Stunning Foliage of the Wild Ginger Plant Their heart-shaped leaves form a dense blanket of foliage in shades from deep green to silvery pastels. Throughout the season, their leaves come alive and enhance the landscape. The plant is primarily prized for its leaves, but in the spring, it will bear small bell-shaped flowers around its base.   Wild Ginger Plant Has a Long Lifespan These flowers, usually dark reddish-brown, are tiny and romantic, adding a bit of personality to the plant. It is a perennial plant, which means it will grow year after year. Its leaves are beautiful in the spring through the fall, and while it does not color change in a way, it keeps garden plantings in place. Given adequate attention, this plant can last decades in your garden, making it an excellent addition to the collection. The Native Perennial's Growing Capabilities The Wild Ginger Plant is available at TN Nursery as a perennial plant that can take root quickly in your garden. The sturdy texture and flexibility of the tree make it an ideal plant for making low-maintenance, shaded bed beds. Grow it in your garden today and feel the timeless beauty of it for years to come.

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15 Ground Cover Favorites - TN Nursery

15 Ground Cover Favorites

15 Ground Cover Favorites Ground Cover Favorites Package offers a grab bag containing ten healthy plants to purchase. This option allows each customer to have a horticulture specialist determine which plants will perform best in their U.S.D.A. growing zone. PLEASE NOTE THAT THESE ARE A COLLECTION OF PLANTS, NOT SPECIFIC PLANT TYPES. WE CHOOSE TYPES THAT WORK BEST FOR YOUR ZONE ACCORDING TO YOUR ZIP CODE Our horticulturists assess your zone and then hand-select your order. You will receive a surprise that includes a variety of 10 beautiful plants. T.N. Nursery specializes in growing species that are easy to care for and suitable for gardeners of every skill level. Ground Cover Favorites in One Package This collection features several fantastic plants that you can use to in your garden. These low plants grow along the world and easily carpet broad space patches. They're a popular alternative for grass, and they also look pretty attractive when worked into landscaping features. We offer diverse options ranging from understated plants that fade into the background to eye-catching plants with unusual colors and features. The one thing all of these plants have in common is that they do a great job of growing along the earth's floor and providing even coverage across your landscape. Exciting Ways To Plant The Ground Cover Favorites These versatile plants work in many situations. Some landscapers like to use them instead of grass to create a unique and beautiful-looking lawn. Others use them as coverage in between taller plants in flower beds. You can also design landscapes with dense clusters of these plants as borders for trees, sidewalks, patios, and more. Try one of our options when you might enjoy a low plant with high coverage. Enjoy A Variety Of With This Package Many different types of plants are available for property owners who need coverage for their earth floors. The best ones have a few attributes that help them stand out. Their dense coverage ensures your yard gets a lush coat of leaves and greenery instead of bare dirt peeking through. Good plants for coverage also tend to have a relatively short and regular appearance. They provide a low, even coating that coats the floor without distracting from the rest of your land. TN Nursery Has Some Fantastic Plants When you want to find great plants to blanket your earth floor, check out our ground cover Favorites. We've looked far and wide to find the most popular options. These iconic plants are well-liked by both professional landscapers and amateur gardeners. When you choose from this bunch of plants, you can be confident you'll get an excellent option that blankets your floor with a lot of beautiful, natural greenery.

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