Drought Tolerant Ground Cover

Drought Tolerant Ground Cover

Drought-tolerant ground cover plants are an increasingly popular choice among homeowners, landscape designers, and urban planners seeking sustainable gardening solutions. As the climate changes and water resources become more strained, these resilient plants emerge as practical options that not only enhance aesthetics but also provide practical benefits such as soil erosion control and habitat for wildlife. Below, we will explore a variety of drought-resistant ground cover plants, detailing their unique characteristics, benefits, and ideal growing conditions.

 

Angelina Sedum

Angelina Sedum (Sedum rupestre 'Angelina')

Angelina sedum (Sedum rupestre ‘Angelina’) is a vibrant ground cover that makes a stunning addition to any xeriscape garden. This succulent plant features needle-like, golden-yellow foliage that adds striking color throughout the growing season. Not only does it thrive in full sun, but it also tolerates poor soil conditions, making it an ideal choice for rocky or barren areas.

In terms of growth, Angelina sedum spreads out to about 2 feet wide and grows to a height of approximately 6 to 12 inches. This plant is quite drought-tolerant once established, which makes it perfect for gardens with limited water supply. As an added benefit, it produces star-shaped yellow flowers in the summer that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. To keep its growth in check and to maintain its vibrant color, it’s advisable to prune it back after flowering.

When using Angelina sedum as a ground cover, it thrives in well-draining soil, so provide it with a sandy or gravelly substrate. It can frequently be found in rock gardens, pathway edges, and containers, proving versatile in various landscaping scenarios.

 

Bearberry Cotoneaster

Bearberry cotoneaster (Cotoneaster dammeri) is a low-growing, evergreen shrub that excels in drought conditions. Its dense, mat-like growth habit allows it to spread efficiently, forming a tidy cover that can smother competing weeds. The plant features small, glossy, dark green leaves that turn a beautiful shade of reddish-bronze in the fall.

This particular ground cover is well-suited for slopes and areas prone to erosion due to its extensive root system, which helps stabilize the soil. Bearberry cotoneaster produces delicate white flowers in late spring that are followed by vibrant red berries in the fall. These berries are not only visually appealing but also provide food for birds and other wildlife.

In terms of light requirements, bearberry cotoneaster thrives in full sun to partial shade and performs best in well-drained soil. It is highly adaptable, making it an excellent choice for a variety of landscaping situations, including low-maintenance gardens, coastal environments, and challenging rocky terrains.

 

Chamomile

chamomile, flowers, plant

Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) is more than just a fragrant tea herb; it serves as an excellent drought-tolerant ground cover as well. Known for its fragrant, daisy-like flowers, chamomile can create a lovely, aromatic carpet of greenery that thrives in dry conditions. This perennial herb can grow to about 12 inches in height and spreads easily, making it a great choice for filling gaps in a garden.

Chamomile prefers full sun and well-drained soil but is remarkably tolerant of poor soil conditions. Once established, it requires minimal watering, making it ideal for xeriscaping or low-water gardens. Beyond its drought resistance, chamomile has the added benefit of attracting beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, enhancing the biodiversity of your garden.

As a ground cover, chamomile not only provides a lush appearance but also has practical uses. The leaves and flowers can be harvested for herbal teas, and the plant is known for its calming properties. Regular trimming may be necessary to manage its growth and to encourage new foliage.

 

Creeping Phlox

How to Grow and Care for Phlox

Creeping phlox (Phlox subulata) is a popular choice for ground cover due to its brilliant spring blooms and drought-resistant qualities. This perennial plant produces an abundance of colorful flowers, ranging from blue to pink and white, creating stunning carpets of color on hillsides and in rock gardens. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, creeping phlox offers excellent erosion control due to its dense growth.

Typically growing to a height of about 6 to 12 inches, creeping phlox spreads vigorously, covering large areas quickly. This plant thrives in full sun but will tolerate light shade as well. It prefers well-drained soils and is remarkably drought-tolerant once established. After blooming, it’s beneficial to trim back the spent flowers to promote a neat appearance and encourage new growth.

Creeping phlox is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to create a low-maintenance, colorful landscape. It’s not only resilient but also attracts butterflies, bringing an added layer of life to your garden.

 

Creeping Thyme

wild thyme, thyme, wild herbs

Creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum) is a hardy, aromatic ground cover that thrives in dry, poor soils. This perennial herb grows only 3 to 6 inches tall and features tiny, dense foliage that remains green throughout the growing season. One of the appealing aspects of creeping thyme is its ability to tolerate foot traffic, making it an excellent option for walkways and between pavers.

The small, purple flowers that bloom in summertime are attractive to bees and other pollinators, making this plant a valuable addition to a pollinator-friendly garden. Creeping thyme grows best in full sun and is drought-resistant once established, requiring little maintenance. Its dense growth habit also suppresses weeds, further reducing the need for intervention.

Creeping thyme is often utilized in rock gardens, along slopes, and in Mediterranean-style landscapes. Its aromatic foliage is an added bonus; when walked upon, it releases a pleasant scent that enhances the sensory experience of your garden.

 

Dwarf Periwinkle

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Dwarf periwinkle (Vinca minor) is a versatile evergreen ground cover known for its attractive foliage and pretty blue flowers. This hardy plant can thrive in a range of conditions, including shaded areas where many other plants struggle. Although it prefers moderate moisture levels, dwarf periwinkle exhibits impressive drought tolerance once established.

Typically reaching a height of about 6 to 12 inches, dwarf periwinkle has a vine-like growth habit, spreading joyfully across the soil. This plant is excellent for filling in shady patches and can also be used to control soil erosion on slopes. Once flowering begins in spring, clusters of violet-blue flowers emerge, often lasting into early summer, providing a beautiful display for the garden.

Dwarf periwinkle is low-maintenance and excellent for underplanting trees or shrubs, as it thrives in the cooler, shaded environments they create. Furthermore, it’s deer-resistant, making it more resilient in gardens where wildlife may pose a threat.

 

Ice Plant

Ice Plant - Delosperma

Ice plant (Delosperma spp.) is an exceptional choice for hot, dry environments, boasting fleshy, vibrant foliage that can withstand drought conditions. Its succulent-like leaves store moisture, allowing the plant to thrive with minimal water. The flowers are also a standout feature, opening in bright hues of pink, yellow, or white and attracting pollinators throughout the summer months.

Ice plant is particularly suited for rocky areas and sandy soils, making it a fantastic option for dry landscapes. Growth heights usually range from 3 to 12 inches, and these low-growing plants can spread up to 2 feet wide, forming a colorful mat that helps accelerate soil stabilization. Many species of ice plant are hardy and can thrive in various climates, from USDA Zones 5 to 10.

In terms of care, ice plant thrives in full sun and requires well-draining soil. It’s ideal for xeriscapes, succulent gardens, and as a border between other drought-resilient plants. Due to their ornamental nature and ability to cover ground quickly, ice plants are both aesthetically pleasing and functional in landscapes with drought resistance in mind.

 

Lantana

lantana camara, flower, butterfly

Lantana (Lantana camara) is a deciduous shrub known for its vibrant clusters of flowers that attract butterflies and birds. While it acts more like a traditional shrub in some settings, when planted sparsely, it can function as a drought-tolerant ground cover, particularly in warmer climates. The flowers come in a variety of colors, including pink, orange, yellow, and purple, providing a lively and colorful display in gardens.

This hardy plant can tolerate poor soil conditions and thrives in full sun, making it an excellent choice for drought-prone landscapes. Lantana spreads readily, reaching a height of about 1 to 3 feet and providing excellent coverage to suppress weeds. It has a high tolerance for heat and is resistant to drought once established.

When planning to use lantana as ground cover, it is advisable to prune it back after flowering to encourage bushier growth and maintain its desired shape. Due to its vigorous growth habit, it can sometimes outcompete other delicate plants, so careful positioning and occasional management may be necessary.

 

Oregon Grape

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Oregon grape (Mahonia aquifolium) is a unique evergreen ground cover that offers an interesting foliage texture and vibrant yellow flowers. This plant thrives in shady areas and is remarkably drought-tolerant once well-established, making it perfect for woodland gardens or shaded hillside areas. The glossy, holly-like leaves not only provide year-round visual interest, but they also turn a striking burgundy in the winter.

During spring, Oregon grape produces clusters of yellow flowers that attract bees and other pollinators. The flowers develop into small blue berries by late summer, which are a food source for birds and can also be harvested for making jams and jellies.

Oregon grape prefers well-draining soil but is tolerant of clay soils and performs well in partial to full shade. Its ability to grow under trees and across woodland settings makes it a valuable low-maintenance option for gardeners seeking to add a unique touch to their landscapes.

 

Rock Rose

purple rockrose, blossom, bloom

Rock rose (Cistus spp.) is an excellent choice for dry, rocky environments, showcasing beautiful, showy flowers that bloom profusely in late spring and early summer. This evergreen perennial ground cover thrives in full sun and requires well-drained soil, making it an ideal candidate for xeriscaping gardens. Its sturdy nature makes it largely resistant to pests and diseases.

The flowers of rock rose can range from white to pink to purple, depending on the variety. When the flowers bloom, the display can be stunning, creating a delightful splash of color in your landscape. Once established, rock rose can endure periods of drought while still providing ground coverage.

In addition to attracting beneficial insects, rock rose is an excellent choice for slope stabilization due to its extensive root system. It can reach a height of approximately 1 to 2 feet and spread wide, making it perfect for both planned landscapes and wildflower gardens.

 

Silver Carpet

Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz CC BY-SA 4.0

Silver carpet (Dymondia margaretae) is a dense, low-growing ground cover known for its attractive silver-gray foliage. This hardy plant thrives in full sun, making it excellent for touch areas such as pathways and sunny borders. Once established, silver carpet exhibits remarkable drought tolerance, requiring little water while maintaining its lush appearance.

Typically, silver carpet grows to about 2 to 4 inches tall but can spread considerably, creating a stunning mat that efficiently suppresses weed growth. It thrives in well-drained soil, which enhances its drought-resistant qualities. During the spring months, it produces small, yellow flowers that, while not the main feature, add to its visual charm.

Having a low profile and attractive foliage, this plant is commonly used in modern landscaping, where it can add contrast to other plants and create a sophisticated look. It blends beautifully in rock gardens, succulent displays, or as a filler in mixed plantings, and its drought tolerance makes it a valuable addition to sustainable landscapes.

 

Snow in Summer

Snow-in-Summer (Cerastium tomentosum)

Snow in summer (Cerastium tomentosum) is a charming perennial ground cover that delights gardeners with its beautiful white flowers that blanket the landscape in early summer. This plant grows low to the ground, reaching heights of 4 to 12 inches, and its spreading habit allows it to cover large areas efficiently.

The fuzzy, gray-green leaves add visual interest even when not in bloom, while its ability to thrive in dry, sunny locations makes it a popular choice for rocky gardens and border fronts. Snow in summer grows best in well-drained soil and is surprisingly drought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal maintenance.

Correctly placed, snow in summer can help to suppress weeds and provide a lovely contrast when combined with other colorful perennials. Along with its aesthetic value, this plant attracts pollinators and beneficial insects, making it an excellent addition to any environmentally friendly garden.

 

Spanish Daisy

flowers, nature, spring

Spanish daisy (Erigeron karvinskianus) is a delightful perennial with a long blooming season, making it a great choice as a drought-tolerant ground cover. It features small, daisy-like flowers in shades of white, pink, and yellow that bloom profusely from spring to fall, adding vibrant colors wherever planted.

This low-growing perennial matures to about 6 to 12 inches tall and can spread up to 2 feet wide. Spanish daisy is exceptionally hardy and thrives in full sun to partial shade while integrating effortlessly into mixed borders, rock gardens, or along pathways. Once established, it exhibits impressive drought tolerance, thriving in well-drained soil.

As an added benefit, Spanish daisy attracts various pollinators, making it an essential asset in a wildlife-friendly garden design. Pruning spent flowers can encourage continuous blooming and help maintain a neat appearance throughout the season.

 

Sweet Woodruff

Sweet Woodruff

Sweet woodruff (Galium odoratum) is a charming woodland ground cover known for its fragrant foliage and delicate white flowers. This perennial plant thrives in shady, moist areas, making it perfect for under trees or in dappled sunlight. However, it also displays a level of drought tolerance once firmly established, allowing it to adapt to drying conditions.

The plant typically reaches a height of about 4 to 8 inches and can spread widely, forming a lush green carpet that suppresses weeds. The sweet-scented leaves can be used to create herbal sachets, adding to its appeal as both an ornamental and functional plant in gardens.

Sweet woodruff is ideal for creating a lush ground cover in shaded or partially shaded areas, where few other plants thrive. It’s often used in cottage gardens, woodland settings, or naturalistic landscapes, effectively providing both visual harmony and ecological benefits.

 

White Clover

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White clover (Trifolium repens) is a perennial ground cover known for its resilience and ability to thrive in various conditions. This low-growing plant typically reaches a height of 4 to 12 inches and produces delightful clusters of white flowers that bloom throughout the spring and summer months. White clover is also a nitrogen-fixing plant, which means it improves soil fertility, making it an environmentally beneficial option for gardens.

While white clover prefers moderate moisture, it exhibits impressive drought tolerance and a high level of adaptability, thriving in range of soil types and conditions including poor, compacted, and sandy soils. As a ground cover, it can help reduce soil erosion and establish a natural, sustainable garden floor.

This plant can be a beautiful addition to low-maintenance lawns, particularly in eco-friendly gardens or meadows. Its dense foliage provides a habitat for beneficial insects, such as pollinators and predatory insects.

 

Winecups

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Winecups (Callirhoe involucrata) are a stunning choice for a drought-tolerant ground cover, showcasing cup-shaped magenta flowers that bloom in the spring and early summer. This perennial plant typically grows to about 12 to 18 inches tall and can spread up to 3 feet wide, making it an excellent filler for dry regions in a garden.

With its ability to thrive in arid conditions, winecups prefer well-drained soil and full sun. They are particularly well-suited for rock gardens, borders, or as part of a wildflower mix, creating vibrant splashes of color while requiring minimal maintenance.

In addition to its striking appearance, winecups are attractive to bees and butterflies, enriching the biodiversity of your garden. These hardy perennials offer an ideal solution for gardeners looking to enhance their landscape while conserving water resources.

 

Yellow Alyssum

Yellow Alyssum

Yellow alyssum (Alyssum saxatile) is a charming perennial that adds a splash of color and visual texture to any drought-resistant garden. Its bright yellow flowers bloom abundantly from late spring to early summer, creating a beautiful, cheerful display. In addition to being visually appealing, yellow alyssum is known for its ability to thrive in tough conditions, including rocky or sandy soils.

Typically growing to a height of about 6 to 12 inches, yellow alyssum can spread between 12 and 24 inches wide, creating a lush carpet of color. This plant thrives best in full sun, exhibiting drought resistance once it becomes established in your garden.

The compact growth habit of yellow alyssum suppresses weeds and helps with soil retention, making it an excellent choice for erosion control on slopes or as a border plant along pathways. As it attracts pollinators, including bees and butterflies, yellow alyssum enhances the biodiversity of your space while contributing to its overall beauty.

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