Southern Low-Growing Landscaping Plants

Shrubs

• Low-growing types of needled evergreens make exceptional groundcovers in the South, particularly in well-drained soils that are not shaded. Creeping junipers (Juniperus spp.) maintain their green to blue-green needles year-round and are drought tolerant. Shade-tolerant shrubs species with dwarf cultivars that remain under 24-inches tall naturally or tolerate pruning include heavenly bamboo (Nandina domestica), Japanese holly (Ilex crenata), willowleaf cotoneaster (Cotoneaster salicifolia) or dwarf conifers. Allegheny or Japanese spurges (Pachsandra spp.) are evergreen, shrub-like perennial clumping plants that remain until 10 inches in height. Clemson University also recommends sweet box (Sarcococca hookeriana var. humilis).

Vines

• Vines not trained vertically sprawl horizontally across the soil surface to make a nice carpet of foliage. English ivy (Hedera helix) remains evergreen and spreads indefinitely; some Southerners find this ivy an invasive weed in their landscapes. Carolina jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens) and native trumpet honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens) are non-invasive woody vines to cover hillsides or replace an area of turf. Confederate jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides), Asiatic jasmine (Trachelospermum asiaticum) and periwinkle (Vinca minor) are other vines that make dense evergreen groundcovers.

Perennials

• Lilyturf (Liriope spp.) and mondo grass (Ophiopogon spp.) are among the most widespread perennials in the South used for foundation beds, edging or shady turf area alternatives. Green and gold (Chrysogonum virginianum) and woodland phlox (Phlox divaricata) also grow well in shade. For sunnier locations grow creeping phlox (Phlox subulata and Phlox stolonifera), carpet bugleweed (Ajuga reptans) or creeping lantana (Lantana camara). If the soil is fertile and moist, lilyturf grows well in full sun exposure.