Complete Gardening
Discover 20 exceptional ground covers perfect for filling bare spots in the Southwest’s hottest summers. These resilient plants not only withstand extreme heat and drought but also add beauty and color to landscapes. Whether you’re looking for vibrant blooms or soothing foliage, this selection offers a variety of options to suit any garden style. Each plant is uniquely adapted to thrive in challenging conditions, providing lush coverage and reducing water needs. Explore the versatility and charm of these ground covers and transform your garden into a thriving oasis, even in the harshest climates.
1. Dymondia (Dymondia margaretae)
Dymondia margaretae, often called “silver carpet,” stands resilient against drought and foot traffic. Its fine, silvery-green leaves create a dense mat, ideal for pathways. This ground cover thrives in full sun, requiring minimal water once established. The plant’s ability to endure harsh conditions makes it perfect for Southwest gardens. Its subtle beauty lies in its compact form and understated elegance. Dymondia not only covers bare spots but also enriches the landscape with its unique texture. Consider it for areas where other plants struggle. Gardeners appreciate its low-maintenance nature, making it a favorite choice.
2. Lippia (Phyla nodiflora) (Creeping Lippia)
Creeping Lippia, or Phyla nodiflora, is a vigorous ground cover known for its rapid spread and charming lavender blooms. This plant forms a lush, low-growing carpet, filling garden spaces effortlessly. Its fragrant flowers attract pollinators, adding life to any garden setting. Ideal for sunny areas, it withstands heat and drought with ease. Lippia’s ability to adapt to various soil types makes it versatile in challenging environments. Its vigorous nature means it can quickly cover large areas, reducing the need for frequent watering. Gardeners value its beauty and resilience, making it a staple in Southwest landscapes.
3. Ice Plant (Delosperma cooperi)
The Ice Plant, Delosperma cooperi, dazzles with its succulent foliage and vibrant magenta blooms. Perfect for hot, sun-drenched locations, this ground cover thrives where others wilt. Its ability to endure poor soil and reflected sun makes it indispensable in challenging landscapes. The Ice Plant’s low water needs and striking appearance create a captivating garden display. Its blooms open in the daytime, adding a burst of color that brightens any space. This plant’s tenacity and beauty make it a favorite among gardeners seeking low-maintenance options. Its exotic look adds a unique flair to the garden.
4. Trailing Lantana (Lantana montevidensis)
Trailing Lantana, Lantana montevidensis, brings a cascade of color to any garden. This semi-evergreen vine spills over edges, showcasing delicate clusters of lavender or white flowers. Known for extreme heat and drought tolerance, it thrives in harsh conditions where other plants fail. Its cascading habit makes it ideal for hanging baskets or trailing down slopes. With minimal care, Lantana provides vibrant blooms throughout the summer. Its adaptability to poor soil and dry areas makes it a versatile choice. Gardeners appreciate its ability to attract butterflies, adding life and movement to the landscape.
5. Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum)
Creeping Thyme, Thymus serpyllum, enchants with its fragrant foliage and delicate pink flowers. This aromatic ground cover creates a bee-friendly mat, perfect for hot, dry, rocky spots. Its low-growing nature adds charm to pathways and borders, releasing a pleasant scent when walked upon. Thyme thrives in full sun, enduring drought conditions once established. Its ability to attract pollinators enhances the garden’s ecosystem, while its compact form minimizes maintenance. Ideal for gardeners seeking both beauty and functionality, Creeping Thyme is a delightful addition to any Southwest landscape, offering both visual and aromatic appeal.
6. Blue Star Creeper
Blue Star Creeper captivates with its delicate presence and resilient spirit. This low-growing ground cover spreads rapidly, creating a dense mat adorned with tiny blue flowers.
Perfect for garden areas that receive full sun, Blue Star Creeper is an ideal choice for those looking to add a touch of color without overwhelming the space.
Fun Fact: Despite its fragile appearance, Blue Star Creeper can withstand light foot traffic, making it practical as well as pretty.
7. Sedum (Sedum album ‘Coral Carpet’)
Sedum album ‘Coral Carpet’ captivates with its coral-pink blooms and succulent nature. This low-growing ground cover thrives in blazing sun, needing minimal water. Its vibrant flowers and fleshy leaves create a striking contrast against rocky or sandy soils. Sedum’s ability to withstand drought and heat makes it ideal for challenging environments. Its compact form and low maintenance appeal to gardeners seeking both beauty and resilience. Coral Carpet’s unique color and texture enliven any garden, providing a lush, attractive cover that demands little attention. Perfect for those wanting vibrant low-water solutions in dry conditions.
8. Red Carpet (Sedum spurium ‘Dragon’s Blood’)
Sedum spurium ‘Dragon’s Blood’ impresses with its striking red foliage and yellow star-shaped blooms. This drought-resistant ground cover thrives in full sun, adding fiery color to gardens. Its deep red leaves turn even more vibrant under intense sunlight, creating a dynamic display. Ideal for rock gardens or as an accent among other plants, Red Carpet requires little maintenance. It spreads easily, covering bare spots with ease. Gardeners value its hardiness and bold appearance, making it a popular choice for challenging landscapes. Its name hints at its regal presence, enhancing any space with vivid color.
9. Blue Rug Juniper (Juniperus horizontalis ‘Wiltonii’)
Blue Rug Juniper, Juniperus horizontalis ‘Wiltonii,’ offers steely-blue mats of evergreen foliage. This hardy ground cover spreads wide, providing lush coverage with minimal care. Its deer-resistant nature makes it an excellent choice for rural or suburban gardens. Thriving in full sun, Blue Rug Juniper adapts well to poor soils and drought conditions. Its cascading habit creates a soft, soothing landscape feature, perfect for slopes or as a border. Gardeners appreciate its resilience and low-maintenance qualities, making it a staple in Southwest gardens. Its calming blue hue adds a touch of tranquility to any setting.
10. Buffalo Grass
Buffalo Grass exudes an untamed elegance, offering a low-maintenance alternative to traditional lawns. Its fine blades create a soft, waving sea of green that thrives in sunny and dry conditions.
Perfect for expansive areas, Buffalo Grass requires minimal watering and mowing, making it an eco-friendly choice for vast landscapes.
History Bit: Native to the Great Plains, Buffalo Grass has adapted to survive drought conditions, becoming a staple in sustainable gardening.
11. Woolly Thyme
Woolly Thyme invites you into a world where texture reigns supreme. With its soft, fuzzy leaves, this ground cover creates a cozy carpet that can tolerate the harsh sun of the Southwest.
A delight for both eyes and feet, Woolly Thyme is an excellent choice for pathways or rock gardens. Its low-growing nature makes it perfect for filling in gaps between stepping stones.
Did you know? Woolly Thyme is not just beautiful; it’s also aromatic, releasing a delightful scent when walked upon.
12. Sunset Gold Coleonema
Sunset Gold Coleonema dazzles with its golden-hued foliage, a beacon of brightness in any garden setting. This low-maintenance ground cover is as resilient as it is beautiful.
Ideal for adding contrast and color, it thrives in sunny spots, requiring little more than occasional pruning to maintain its shape.
Anecdote: Known as ‘Breath of Heaven’, this plant is said to bring good fortune and has been cherished in gardens for its uplifting presence.
13. Trailing Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Prostratus’)
Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Prostratus,’ or Trailing Rosemary, enhances gardens with its fragrant, evergreen foliage. This woody herb cascades gracefully over walls and slopes, adding visual interest. Known for thriving in sun and heat, it requires minimal water once established. Its aromatic leaves add sensory appeal, making it a favorite among gardeners. Trailing Rosemary’s ability to tolerate poor soil and dry conditions makes it versatile in challenging environments. Its cascading habit provides lush coverage and can be used in culinary applications. The plant’s resilience and beauty make it an excellent choice for Southwest gardens.
14. Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile)
Roman Chamomile exudes an old-world charm with its aromatic green leaves and daisy-like white flowers. Often used in herbal remedies, it brings both beauty and utility to gardens.
This ground cover flourishes in full sun, enduring the Southwest heat with its drought-resistant nature. Its fragrant foliage offers a soothing scent, enhancing the garden experience.
Ideal for cottage gardens or naturalized areas, Roman Chamomile is perfect for creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. Its low-maintenance needs make it a gardener’s delight.
15. Gold Carpet (Aurinia saxatilis)
Aurinia saxatilis, known as Gold Carpet, brings a burst of yellow to spring gardens. This ground cover forms dense cushions that handle baking soils with ease. Its evergreen foliage provides year-round interest, making it a versatile choice for sunny spots. Gold Carpet thrives in full sun, requiring minimal water once established. Gardeners value its ability to suppress weeds and fill bare spots. Its bright blooms attract pollinators, enhancing the garden’s ecosystem. The plant’s resilience and cheerful presence make it a favorite in challenging conditions. Its low-maintenance nature adds to its appeal in Southwest landscapes.
16. Snow-in-Summer (Cerastium tomentosum)
Snow-in-Summer captivates with its silvery leaves and blanket of white flowers that bloom in early summer. This ground cover’s frosty appearance offers a striking contrast against warmer landscape tones.
Perfect for rocky areas or slopes, it thrives in well-drained soil under full sun. Its cascading habit softens hard edges, enhancing garden design.
Snow-in-Summer is not only visually appealing but also hardy and drought-tolerant. Its resilience makes it a favorite for challenging spots where other plants might struggle.
17. Copper Canyon Daisy (Tagetes lemmonii)
Tagetes lemmonii, or Copper Canyon Daisy, captivates with its golden blooms and aromatic foliage. This arching ground cover thrives in hot, dry sites, offering both beauty and resilience. Known for its ability to endure harsh conditions, it is perfect for Southwest landscapes. The plant’s fragrant leaves add sensory appeal, attracting pollinators and enhancing the garden’s ecosystem. Copper Canyon Daisy’s long blooming season provides continuous interest, making it a favorite among gardeners. Its vibrant color and robust nature make it an ideal choice for challenging environments. This plant’s charisma and hardiness ensure garden success.
18. Elfin Thyme (Thymus ‘Elfin’)
Thymus ‘Elfin,’ or Elfin Thyme, charms with its dense, low-growing habit. Perfect for planting between stepping stones, it creates a lush, green carpet. Known for its aromatic foliage, Elfin Thyme thrives in full sun, requiring minimal water. Its compact nature makes it ideal for small spaces or as an accent in larger landscapes. The plant’s ability to endure drought and heat adds to its appeal in Southwest gardens. Gardeners appreciate its beauty and functionality, using it to fill gaps and add texture. Elfin Thyme’s enchanting presence and practicality make it a versatile choice for sunlit areas.
19. Perennial Four-O’Clock (Mirabilis multiflora)
Mirabilis multiflora, or Perennial Four-O’Clock, enchants with its fragrant evening flowers. This native plant spreads effortlessly, thriving on neglect in full sun. Its ability to withstand drought and poor soil makes it perfect for challenging environments. The blooms open in the evening, releasing a sweet scent that attracts pollinators. Gardeners appreciate its resilience and low maintenance, adding visual interest to landscapes. Perennial Four-O’Clock’s vibrant color and adaptability make it a beloved choice for Southwest gardens. Its capacity to thrive with little care ensures ongoing beauty, providing an attractive solution for bare spots.
20. Trailing Coreopsis (Coreopsis verticillata ‘Moonbeam’)
Coreopsis verticillata ‘Moonbeam,’ known as Trailing Coreopsis, brightens gardens with its butter-yellow daisies. This drought-tolerant plant features silver-filigreed foliage, adding texture and color. Ideal for sunny spots, it thrives with minimal water, providing long-lasting blooms. The plant’s ability to withstand heat and poor soil enhances its appeal in Southwest landscapes. Gardeners value its cheerful appearance and low maintenance. Trailing Coreopsis transforms bare areas into vibrant displays, offering both beauty and resilience. Its enchanting presence and adaptability make it a favorite choice for those seeking easy-care solutions in challenging climates.