Groundcovers for Shade

Tired of trying to grow grass in the shade? Consider using shade tolerant groundcovers instead.

Pachysandra is a traditional favorite with glossy evergreen foliage and white fragrant flowers in spring. Try interspersing this groundcover with other shade tolerant perennials for a more informal look.

Ajuga, also called bugleweed, has green, bronze or variegated leaves topped with blue flowers in spring. Interplant with hosta to double the foliage appeal.

The quick spreading Canadian ginger is a good choice for dense shade.

Lamium is tolerant of dry shade once established. The variegated foliage helps to brighten the shade. The white, pink or mauve flowers last from late spring through early summer and sporadically throughout the season.

A bit more information: Add a bit of extra color in your groundcover beds. Try planting hardy bulbs in groundcover plantings to provide added color in spring, summer or fall. Mix daffodils and Virginia bluebells with hosta plantings, autumn crocus with bugleweed and Siberian squills and glory-of-the-snow with deadnettle or sweet woodruff.