Groundcovers
Plants that are low-growing, form a dense mat of foliage, and spread easily by stolons, runners or rhizomes.
Narrower Topics
Related Topics: Groundcovers, Plant Selection Guides
UF/IFAS Assessment of Non-native Plants
Related Topics: Groundcovers, Native Plants
Publications
Ajuga reptans: Common Bugle, Bugleweed, Carpet Bugleweed
FP026/FPS26 by Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail HansenFebruary 6, 2019This document provides an overview of Ajuga reptans, commonly known as bugleweed. It describes the plant’s characteristics, including its dark green to purple leaves, small blue flowers, and its growth habit as a ground cover. The document also details its planting requirements, such as preferred light conditions, soil tolerances, and USDA hardiness zones. Additionally, it highlights the plant’s uses in landscaping, potential invasive nature, and available cultivars. The document concludes with information on propagation, pest resistance, and aesthetic considerations for garden design. Original publication date October 1999.
Aspidistra elatior Cast Iron Plant
FP053/FPS53 by Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail HansenJuly 26, 2022This document provides an overview of the cast iron plant (Aspidistra elatior), highlighting its characteristics, uses, and growing conditions. The plant is known for its dark green, glossy foliage and ability to thrive in low-light environments. It is a perennial herbaceous plant native to temperate Asia and is suitable for use as a ground cover, container plant, or indoor plant. The cast iron plant is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and has moderate drought tolerance. It is generally pest-resistant but susceptible to leaf-spotting diseases. The document also discusses the plant’s propagation methods and care requirements, including its need for protection from winter winds in colder climates. Original publication date October 1999.
Canavalia maritima Beach Bean, Bay Bean
FP100/FPS100 by Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail HansenMarch 8, 2023This document provides an overview of the beach bean (Canavalia maritima), a dense ground cover native to the coastal sands of southeast Florida. It describes the plant’s physical characteristics, including its evergreen, trifoliate leaves and pink to purple flowers that bloom year-round. The beach bean is noted for its high drought and salt spray tolerance, making it ideal for coastal landscapes. It is effective in stabilizing sandy soils and resisting erosion. The document also highlights the plant’s growth habits, soil and light requirements, and its general lack of pest and disease issues. Original publication date October 1999.
Carissa grandiflora Natal Plum, Common Carissa
FP107/FPS107 by Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail HansenMarch 8, 2023This document provides a detailed overview of the Carissa grandiflora, commonly known as the natal plum. It describes the plant’s physical characteristics, including its evergreen nature, lustrous green leaves, white star-shaped flowers, and bright red, edible fruit. The document highlights the plant’s adaptability to various soil types and light conditions, its high drought tolerance, and its suitability for use in hedges, screens, and ground covers. Additionally, it notes the plant’s moderate growth rate, dense habit, and minimal pest issues, while cautioning against overwatering to prevent root rot. Original publication date October 1999.
Lagerstroemia indica 'New Orleans' New Orleans Crape Myrtle
FP317/FPS-317 by Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail HansenNovember 6, 2023This document provides an overview of the ‘New Orleans’ crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica ‘New Orleans’), highlighting its characteristics, planting requirements, and uses. It details the plant’s growth habits, including its height, spread, and leaf arrangement, as well as its seasonal attributes such as summer flowering and attractive fall foliage. The document also discusses the plant’s tolerance to various soil types and drought conditions, its susceptibility to pests and diseases, and recommended pruning practices. Additionally, it mentions several cultivars of crape myrtle, noting their specific features and resistance to common issues like powdery mildew. Original publication date October 1999.
Monarda punctata Bee Balm, Horsemint
FP413/FPS413 by Edward F. Gilman, Terry Delvalle, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail HansenJanuary 11, 2024This document provides an overview of Monarda punctata, commonly known as horsemint or bee balm. It describes the plant’s physical characteristics, including its height, leaf shape, and flower color. The text highlights its native habitat in Florida and its suitability for USDA hardiness zones 4 through 9. It also covers the plant’s uses in landscaping, its growth requirements, and its moderate drought tolerance. Additionally, the document mentions propagation methods and the plant’s resistance to pests and diseases. Original publication date October 1999.
Narcissus spp. Daffodil, Narcissus
FP423/FPS423 by Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail HansenNovember 27, 2023This document provides a comprehensive overview of the daffodil (Narcissus spp.), detailing its various forms, colors, and uses in landscaping. It covers the plant’s characteristics, including its height, spread, growth rate, and leaf and flower features. The document also discusses the planting and care requirements for daffodils, such as soil preferences, watering needs, and pest management. Additionally, it highlights the potential diseases and pests that can affect daffodils and offers guidance on how to address these issues. Original publication date Sept. 1999.
Pilea cadierei Aluminum Plant
FP478/FPS478 by Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail HansenJanuary 16, 2024This document provides an overview of the Pilea cadierei, commonly known as the aluminum plant. It describes the plant’s distinctive variegated foliage, growth habits, and care requirements. The aluminum plant thrives in shaded areas and can be used as a ground cover, in hanging baskets, or cascading down walls2. It is sensitive to pests and requires regular irrigation and fertilization to maintain its appearance. The document also highlights the plant’s invasive potential and its suitability for USDA hardiness zones 10 through 11. Original publication date October 1999.
Pilea microphylla Artillery Plant
FP479/FPS479 by Edward F. GilmanMay 3, 2023This document provides an overview of the artillery plant (Pilea microphylla), detailing its characteristics, growth habits, and uses. The plant is described as a fine-textured, fern-like ground cover that grows 8 to 12 inches tall and spreads up to two feet wide. It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 10B through 11 and prefers well-drained, moist soils. The artillery plant is suitable for mass planting, container gardening, and indoor growth. It is noted for its moderate drought tolerance, potential invasiveness, and occasional pest issues. Propagation is typically done through cuttings, and the plant requires minimal maintenance, with occasional pinching to encourage bushiness. Original publication date October 1999.
Related IFAS Blog Posts
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Low-Maintenance Landscaping: Groundcovers
Jackie LebouitzNovember 21st, 2023Groundcovers are low-to-the-ground plants that you can use to help fill out your landscape. Keep reading to learn about some groundcover plants that require minimal watering and care in Sarasota County. Note: The following information is adapted from the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Plant Guide. Legend Apart from the information presented in the table, the following features […]
Flowering Groundcovers: Beyond Just Grass
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