Home Garden

Types of Hardy Flowering Ground Cover

Ground covers are often used for naturalizing and controlling soil erosion on sloped areas. Planting ground covers benefit the home gardener by providing visual interest without obstructing views, minimizing lawn maintenance and reducing heat, noise and dust around buildings. Even hardy ground covers require some care; remember to buy the plants that are best suited for your site, soil and coverage need.
  1. Ajuga

    • Ajuga is a low-growing (three to four inches), evergreen ground cover that is hardy in zones three to nine. It grows in a dense, compact mat and produces a profusion of blue flowers on top of five-inch spikes. Ajuga is well-suited for wet areas and is favored for attracting bumblebees. Varieties of ajuga that are especially suited for growing as ground cover are "Bronze Beauty," "Jungle Beauty" and "Rubra."

    Phlox

    • Creeping phlox, or "Thrift," is a low-growing, fast-spreading ground cover with a mossy appearance. It is drought-tolerant and adapts to a wide range of conditions. Creeping phlox produces a small blossom that typically lasts two to four weeks. It is highly recommended to help control soil erosion.

    Sedum

    • Sedum is a deciduous ground cover that is hardy in zones three to eight. It is very low to the ground, typically only one or two inches high, and prefers sandy soil. Sedum produces yellow flowers in the spring and summer. It is excellent for use in rock gardens and should not be planted in areas of frequent foot traffic.