In every well-balanced garden, there is a secret layer that brings harmony, function and unexpected beauty. Groundcovers and other low-growing perennials are unsung garden heroes that often go unnoticed, yet they are the connective tissue beneath shrubs, trees and taller perennials.
These hardy plants are resilient. Many thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 9. They are built to withstand weather extremes, foot traffic and even periods of drought once plants are established. Because of their compact size, they are ideal for tucking into urban gardens, providing filler in containers and softening hardscapes and borders. In garden beds, layer them in front of taller plants to create depth and fullness.
When planting groundcovers and low-growing perennials, remove any weeds and loosen the soil to improve drainage. Add a light blend of compost or well-aged organic matter. After planting, water deeply to help the roots establish. Adding a layer of mulch will help retain moisture and suppress weeds, but keep mulch from touching the stems to prevent rot. While they are low-feeders, give these plants a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage growth and blooming. Be cautious not to over-fertilize, especially with sedum and dead nettle, as this can lead to weak growth.
Whether filling a troublesome slope or brightening a shady corner, groundcovers and other low-growing perennials offer practical benefits and aesthetic charm. At Loma Vista Nursery, we grow the following spectacular varieties for Midwest independent garden centers, landscape contractors and wholesale distributors.
Blue Leadwort (Ceratostigma plumbaginoides)
Blue Leadwort
This late-season bloomer covers the ground with prolific, cobalt-blue flowers from late summer into fall. Blue Leadwort prefers sun to part shade and well-drained soil. Its green foliage transforms into shades of bronze and crimson with autumn’s chill, extending its seasonal interest. Native to China, this plant has a reputation for resilience and was historically used in folk medicine to “draw out toxins.” Today, it’s best admired for its ornamental value.
Purple Dragon Dead Nettle (Lamium maculatum ‘Purple Dragon’)
Purple Dragon Dead Nettle
Pretty purple blooms emerge from late spring through early summer and sometimes sporadically throughout the season. But even when Purple Dragon Dead Nettle is not in bloom, its silver-and-green foliage produces a dazzling show. Shade loving, it is an ideal choice for planting under taller trees or shrubs, or in the shadow of buildings. Deer and rabbit resistant, consider adding this delicate perennial in landscape designs that feature woodland-edge gardens or settings where wildlife pressure is high.
Scarlet Flame Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata ‘Scarlet Flame’)
Scarlet Flame Creeping Phlox
Seeking a pop of color in early spring? Scarlet Flame Creeping Phlox is a must. This sun-loving, drought-tolerant groundcover forms a low mat that explodes with brilliant pink-red blooms, which persist into early summer. Plant it in rock gardens, on sunny slopes or cascading over retaining walls. Fun fact: Early American settlers admired creeping phlox for its ability to stabilize hillsides while brightening up the homestead.
John Creech Stonecrop (Sedum spurium ‘John Creech’)
John Creech Stonecrop
Developed by Dr. John Creech of the U.S. National Arboretum, this sedum has a tight, ground-hugging habit that thrives in heat, poor soil conditions and full sun. It is a summer workhorse that smothers weeds under its lush, carpet-like foliage. Small pink flower clusters in early summer beckon bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. A type of succulent, fleshy leaves form unique, distinct clusters, each with five petals, that store water. This makes John Creech Stonecrop incredibly drought tolerant and an ideal selection for waterwise landscapes and low-maintenance borders.
Baltic Ivy (Hedera helix ‘Baltica’)
Baltic Ivy
This low-growing evergreen groundcover brings lush texture to shaded or mixed-light areas. With deep green, leathery leaves and a vigorous, trailing habit, Baltic Ivy adds structure and beauty to garden beds, walls, fences and slopes. In rich, well-draining soil, space plants 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for natural spreading. Prune as needed for control. Cold hardy, this ivy prefers partial to full shade but can tolerate some sun in cooler climates. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots, then reduce frequency as it becomes more drought tolerant.
Francee Hosta (Hosta fortunei ‘Francee’)
Francee Hosta
Prized for its bold foliage and tidy form, Francee Hosta brings timeless elegance to shaded borders, woodland gardens and foundation plantings. Its broad, deep green leaves are rimmed with crisp white margins, brightening even the darkest corners of the garden. In mid-to-late summer, tall stalks emerge bearing pale lavender, trumpet-shaped flowers that attract hummingbirds and pollinators.
Francee Hosta (Hosta fortunei ‘Francee’) – In Bloom
Learn More About Loma Vista Nursery’s Landscape Plants
Loma Vista Nursery grows groundcovers, flowering shrubs, perennial plants and trees for Midwest independent garden centers, landscape contractors and wholesale distributors. Our team of plant experts helps people learn about plants and the healthy varieties we grow.
Ordering is underway for the trade industry! Review Loma Vista Nursery’s plant catalog for information and visit our website to learn about our values and best practices as a wholesale Midwest plant grower. For help with orders and plant-related questions, send an email to sales@lomavistanursery.com or call (785) 229-7200.
Connect with Us
Stay up-to-date on Loma Vista Nursery’s plant recommendations, species highlights, growing tips and more by following our blogs online and our posts on social media.
