The soil-surface layer
The Groundcover Layer
Groundcovers grow close to the soil and spread across otherwise open surfaces. They form the living boundary between the soil and the weather above it.
Role in the design
What this layer contributes
This layer can reduce bare ground, soften rainfall impact, moderate soil temperature, compete with unwanted seedlings, and make use of low vertical space.
Living library
Explore groundcover plants
54 records in this layer
Annual
Bambara Groundnut
Vigna subterranea
USDA zones 8–11
Perennial
Barren Strawberry
Waldsteinia fragarioides
USDA zones 4–7
Perennial
Beach Strawberry
Fragaria chiloensis
USDA zones 4–10
Perennial
Bilberry
Vaccinium myrtillus
USDA zones 3–7
Annual
Black Medick
Medicago lupulina
USDA zones 3–9
Perennial
Brahmi
Bacopa monnieri
USDA zones 8–11
Perennial
Carpet Bugle
Ajuga reptans
USDA zones 3–10
Perennial
Catmint
Nepeta racemosa
USDA zones 5–9
Perennial
Cloudberry
Rubus chamaemorus
USDA zones 2–4
Annual
Common Chickweed
Stellaria media
USDA zones 4–11
Perennial
Common Periwinkle
Vinca minor
USDA zones 4–8
Annual
Common Purslane Golden
Portulaca oleracea subsp sativa
USDA zones 2–11