What are the top-performing ground cover plants for shaded areas?
Written by
Benjamin Miller
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Plants that are under the canopy of trees will turn shaded areas into rich ecology. I have watched Ajuga reptans taking over a slope that was shaded by an oak tree for a client, and it helped prevent weeds, while also stabilizing bare soil. Sedum ternatum is also a great choice for dry shade; it has succulent types of leaves that can store water while other plants dry up and die. Begin by testing the soil so you will know which plants will work in the unique aspects of your site.
Erosion Control
- Mazus reptans grips slopes with dense roots
- Pachysandra stabilizes soil under mature trees
- Reduces runoff by 70% compared to bare soil
Wildlife Support
- Tiarella cordifolia feeds early-spring bees
- Mitchella repens berries sustain winter birds
- Hosts 5x more pollinators than non-native species
Soil preparation is probably the most important factor separating success from struggle.For Hexastylis, I work clay with 30% compost for better drainage.A client's declining Galium odoratum responded when we lowered pH to 6.2 with pine needles. And don't forget mulch, use gravel for succulents, or any kind of leaf mold for moisture lovers.
Think about the contrast in your design. Use Ophiopogon with its black blades and Heuchera with its silver veining together as an example, in which both colors contrast. I layered Asarum canadense at a height of 6" combined with a Hydrangea quercifolia we placed at a height of 36" near a patio area which creates visual depth and hides the dying foliage from the spring bulbs; as I have done on 12+ other projects.
Read the full article: 10 Best Ground Cover Shade Plants
