Perennial Plants for Partial Shade to Full Shade Groundcover

Plants by Genus

Welcome to our perennial plant nursery!
Imagine More Perennial Plants Than You Can Imagine, Delivered To You.

Free Shipping to most states

Hosta

Hemerocallis

Sedum

Heuchera

Phlox

Echinacea

Whitehall

Iris

Helleborus

Coreopsis

View all Brands

Hosta

Hemerocallis

Sedum

Heuchera

Phlox

Echinacea

Whitehall

Iris

Helleborus

Coreopsis

Dianthus

Astilbe

Hibiscus

Salvia

Liriope

Monarda

Veronica

Baptisia

Clematis

Lavandula

Achillea

Aquilegia

Buddleia

Leucanthemum

Ajuga

Carex

Delosperma

Delphinium

Hedera

Paeonia

Gaillardia

Lantana

Papaver

Sempervivum

Campanula

Heucherella

Digitalis

Geranium

Kniphofia

Mangave

Nepeta

Agastache

Miscanthus

Panicum

Vinca

Alcea

Athyrium

Perovskia

Aster

Lupinus

Penstemon

Ophiopogon

Primula

Anemone

Dicentra

LAGERSTROEMIA

Thymus

Euphorbia

Iberis

Pennisetum

Stokesia

Tradescantia

Brunnera

Platycodon

Verbena

Agave

Allium

Rudbeckia

Bergenia

Gaura

Heliopsis

Lamium

Pulmonaria

Acorus

Calamagrostis

Epimedium

Euonymus

Lobelia

Pachysandra

Polemonium

Amsonia

Armeria

Asclepias

Gypsophila

Ligularia

Scabiosa

Stachys

Tiarella

Viola

Artemisia

Aruncus

Dryopteris

Colocasia

Hakonechloa

Liatris

Lysimachia

Mazus

Schizachyrium

Tricyrtis

Alstroemeria

View all Brands

Epimedium

Epimedium 'Songbirds' (30)ct Flat

MSRP:

Now: $374.50

Choose Options
Compare
Epimedium

Epimedium w. 'Sandy Claws' (30)ct Flat

MSRP:

Now: $374.50

Choose Options
Compare
Euonymus

Euonymus f. 'Acutus' (2.5 inch pot)

MSRP:

Now: $2.84

Choose Options
Compare
Euonymus

Euonymus f. 'Acutus' (3.5 inch pot)

MSRP:

Now: $4.10

Choose Options
Compare
Euonymus

Euonymus f. 'Acutus' (bare root plant)

MSRP:

Now: $1.99

Choose Options
Compare
Euonymus

Euonymus f. 'Coloratus' (2.5 inch pot)

MSRP:

Now: $2.84

Choose Options
Compare
Euonymus

Euonymus f. 'Coloratus' (3.5 inch pot)

MSRP:

Now: $4.10

Choose Options
Compare
Euonymus

Euonymus f. 'Coloratus' (bare root plant)

MSRP:

Now: $1.99

Choose Options
Compare
Euonymus

Euonymus fortunei 'Coloratus' (18)ct Flat

MSRP:

Now: $88.08

Choose Options
Compare
Galium

Galium odoratum (30)ct Flat

MSRP:

Now: $183.26

Choose Options
Compare
Hedera

Hedera algeriensis 'Gloire de Marengo' (10)ct Flat

MSRP:

Now: $78.12

Choose Options
Compare
Hedera

Hedera algeriensis 'Gloire de Marengo' (18)ct Flat

MSRP:

Now: $92.11

Choose Options
Compare

Epimedium

Epimedium 'Songbirds' (30)ct Flat

Epimedium 'Songbirds' (30)ct FlatCommon Name: Barrenwort One of the most floriferous Epimedium selections out there, according to the hybridizer, Tony Avent. Golden yellow flowers have small rose sepals, although at a glance they appear yellow. Its deep...

MSRP:

Now: $374.50
Choose Options Compare
Epimedium

Epimedium w. 'Sandy Claws' (30)ct Flat

Epimedium wushanense 'Sandy Claws' (30)ct FlatCommon Name: Barrenwort This woodland perennial is perfect to combine with other shade staples like Hostas and ferns. 'Sandy Claws' has a similar leaf shape to 'Spine Tingler' but forms a larger plant with...

MSRP:

Now: $374.50
Choose Options Compare
Euonymus

Euonymus f. 'Acutus' (2.5 inch pot)

Euonymus fortunei 'Acutus' (2.5-inch pot)Common Name: Wintercreeper Height: 12-24 Inches Spread: 2-3 Feet Space 12-18 inches apart. Hardiness Zone: 5-8 Full Sun to Shade Tough Ground Cover Only newer growth turn Burgundy in Winter Best used in areas...

MSRP:

Now: $2.84
Choose Options Compare
Euonymus

Euonymus f. 'Acutus' (3.5 inch pot)

Euonymus fortunei 'Acutus' (3.5-inch pot)Common Name: Wintercreeper Height: 12-24 Inches Spread: 2-3 Feet Space 12-18 inches apart. Hardiness Zone: 5-8 Full Sun to Shade Tough Ground Cover Only newer growth turn Burgundy in Winter Best used in areas...

MSRP:

Now: $4.10
Choose Options Compare
Euonymus

Euonymus f. 'Acutus' (bare root plant)

Euonymus fortunei 'Acutus' bare root plantCommon Name: Wintercreeper Height: 12-24 Inches Spread: 2-3 Feet Space 12-18 inches apart. Hardiness Zone: 5-8 Full Sun to Shade Tough Ground Cover Only newer growth turn Burgundy in Winter Best used in...

MSRP:

Now: $1.99
Choose Options Compare
Euonymus

Euonymus f. 'Coloratus' (2.5 inch pot)

Euonymus fortunei 'Coloratus' (2.5-inch pot)Common Name: Purple Wintercreeper Mature height up to 2', spread 3', climbs 20' Hardiness Zone: 5-8 Full Sun to Shade Tough Ground Cover Leaves turn Burgundy in Winter Best used in areas where it can be...

MSRP:

Now: $2.84
Choose Options Compare
Euonymus

Euonymus f. 'Coloratus' (3.5 inch pot)

Euonymus fortunei 'Coloratus' (3.5-inch pot)Common Name: Purple Wintercreeper Mature height up to 2', spread 3', climbs 20' Hardiness Zone: 5-8 Full Sun to Shade Tough Ground Cover Leaves turn Burgundy in Winter Best used in areas where it can be...

MSRP:

Now: $4.10
Choose Options Compare
Euonymus

Euonymus f. 'Coloratus' (bare root plant)

Euonymus fortunei 'Coloratus' bare root plantCommon Name: Purple Wintercreeper Mature height up to 2', spread 3', climbs 20' Hardiness Zone: 5-8 Full Sun to Shade Tough Ground Cover Leaves turn Burgundy in Winter Best used in areas where it can be...

MSRP:

Now: $1.99
Choose Options Compare
Euonymus

Euonymus fortunei 'Coloratus' (18)ct Flat

Euonymus fortunei 'Coloratus' a/k/a Japanese Euonymus, purple leaf wintercreeper, wintercreeper euonymus, purple wintercreeper euonymus Zone: 4 to 9. Sun to Shade. Mature size: 8 to 24 inches height; fast spreading, vine-like growth. Extremely hardy,...

MSRP:

Now: $88.08
Choose Options Compare
Galium

Galium odoratum (30)ct Flat

Galium odoratum (30)ct Flat Common Name: Sweet Woodruff. A vigorous ground cover for partially shaded, moist areas with slightly acidic soil. Tiny, white, star-shaped flowers appear in late spring above a carpet of green foliage. The bright green...

MSRP:

Now: $183.26
Choose Options Compare
Hedera

Hedera algeriensis 'Gloire de Marengo' (10)ct Flat

Hedera algeriensis 'Gloire de Marengo'a/k/a Variegated Algerian Ivy, Gloire de Marengo Canary Island IvyZone: 7 to 10. Sun or shade.Mature size: 12 inch height, vigorous climber. Evergreen, slightly 3-lobed leaves are heart-shaped, glossy with cream to...

MSRP:

Now: $78.12
Choose Options Compare
Hedera

Hedera algeriensis 'Gloire de Marengo' (18)ct Flat

Hedera algeriensis 'Gloire de Marengo' a/k/a Variegated Algerian Ivy, Gloire de Marengo Canary Island Ivy Zone: 7 to 10. Sun or shade. Mature size: 12 inch height, vigorous climber. Evergreen, slightly 3-lobed leaves are heart-shaped, glossy with cream...

MSRP:

Now: $92.11
Choose Options Compare

Compare Selected

Planting shade perennial groundcovers offers a wealth of benefits beyond simply filling in bare spaces under trees or in shaded areas. Here is a closer look at the advantages they provide:

Aesthetic Appeal:

Year-round interest: Many shade groundcovers boast beautiful foliage in various shades of green, silver, and even variegated patterns, adding visual texture and dimension even when flowers are absent.
Softens hardscapes: Groundcovers soften the stark lines of patios, pathways, and retaining walls, creating a more natural and inviting ambiance.
Provides a living backdrop: Lush foliage creates a calming and visually appealing foundation for shade-loving plants and flowers.

Functional Benefits:

Weed suppression: Similar to sun groundcovers, they effectively suppress weeds by blocking sunlight and competing for resources, reducing weeding needs.
Moisture retention: Dense cover helps retain moisture in the soil, especially beneficial in shaded areas that tend to dry out slower.
Erosion control: Root systems help hold soil in place, preventing erosion on slopes and inclines in shady areas.
Improved soil health: As leaves decompose, they add organic matter to the soil, enriching it and promoting healthy microbial activity.
Reduced maintenance: Generally low-maintenance once established, requiring minimal watering, infrequent fertilization, and little to no pruning.

Ecological Advantages:

Habitat for wildlife: Dense mats provide shelter and nesting sites for beneficial insects, amphibians, and small animals that thrive in shady environments.
Food source for pollinators: Some shade groundcovers offer blooms that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting biodiversity even in low-light areas.
Reduced reliance on pesticides: Attracting beneficial insects can help control pest populations naturally, minimizing the need for chemical alternatives.

Additional Benefits:

Reduces soil compaction: Dense root systems help loosen compacted soil, improving drainage and aeration for other plants.
Muffled sound: Groundcovers can help absorb sound, creating a more serene atmosphere in your shady retreat.
Reduces mudsplash: Similar to sun groundcovers, they can minimize soil splash onto foliage, potentially reducing the spread of fungal diseases.

By incorporating these versatile plants into your shaded areas, you can create a beautiful, low-maintenance, and ecologically valuable space that thrives under the cover of trees and foliage. Consider the specific benefits that align with your needs and choose appropriate varieties to enjoy the many advantages shade perennial groundcovers offer.

What are the characteristics of shade perennial plant groundcovers?

Shade perennial plant groundcovers are a great way to add beauty and function to your garden. They can help suppress weeds, prevent erosion, and provide habitat for wildlife. Here are some of the characteristics of shade perennial plant groundcovers:

Low-growing: They typically grow to no more than 12-18 inches tall, making them perfect for underplanting trees and shrubs or filling in other shady areas.
Shade-tolerant: They are adapted to low light conditions and will thrive in areas that receive little to no direct sunlight.
Spreading: Many shade perennial groundcovers spread slowly over time, helping to fill in large areas and suppress weeds.
Low-maintenance: Once established, they require little care in terms of watering, fertilizing, and pest control.
Variety: There are many different types of shade perennial groundcovers available, with a wide range of foliage colors, textures, and flower colors.

Here are some popular examples of shade perennial plant groundcovers:

Ajuga reptans (Bugleweed): This low-growing perennial has glossy green leaves and spikes of blue flowers in the spring.
Epimedium (Barrenwort): This shade-loving perennial has attractive heart-shaped leaves and clusters of yellow, orange, or pink flowers in the spring.
Heuchera (Coral bells): This versatile perennial comes in a wide range of foliage colors, from green to burgundy to purple. It also has small, bell-shaped flowers in the summer.
Liriope muscari (Lilyturf): This evergreen perennial has grass-like leaves and spikes of lavender flowers in the late summer.
Tiarella cordifolia (Foamflower): This shade-loving perennial has heart-shaped leaves and spikes of white or pink flowers in the spring.

When choosing shade perennial plant groundcovers for your garden, consider the following factors:

The amount of shade: Some shade perennial groundcovers are more tolerant of deep shade than others.
The size of the area: Choose groundcovers that will mature to the right size for your space.
The soil type: Make sure the groundcovers you choose are suitable for your soil type.
Your personal preferences: Choose groundcovers that you find attractive and that will complement the other plants in your garden.

With a little planning, you can easily find shade perennial plant groundcovers that will add beauty and function to your garden.

How Do I Plant shade perennial plant groundcovers?

Planting shade perennial groundcovers involves preparing the soil, choosing the right plants, and providing proper care after planting. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Preparation:

Assess your shade: Different shade levels exist, from dappled light under airy trees to dense shade under buildings. Identify the level of shade in your planting area.
Prep the soil: Remove any weeds, debris, and existing plants. Turn the soil to a depth of 8-12 inches and amend it with organic matter like compost or aged manure to improve drainage and fertility. Test your soil pH and adjust if necessary for your chosen plants.
Plan your spacing: Research the mature size of your chosen groundcovers and space them accordingly, allowing room for them to spread without overcrowding.

Planting:

Water thoroughly: Before planting, water the prepared soil deeply to encourage root growth.
Dig individual holes: Dig planting holes slightly deeper than the root ball of your plants. Loosen the soil at the bottom of each hole.
Remove plants from pots: Gently remove plants from their pots, teasing apart any tightly bound roots.
Plant and adjust: Place each plant in its hole, ensuring the root crown sits slightly above the surrounding soil level. Backfill the hole with soil, firming it gently around the base of the plant.
Water again: Water each plant deeply to settle the soil and hydrate the roots.
Mulch (optional): Apply a layer of organic mulch, like shredded bark or wood chips, around the base of your plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Keep mulch away from the stems to prevent rot.

Aftercare:

Water regularly: Especially during the first year, water your groundcovers regularly, especially during dry spells. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Fertilize sparingly: Most shade perennial groundcovers do not require heavy feeding. A light application of slow-release fertilizer in early spring might be sufficient, depending on your soil quality and plant needs.
Weed control: Regularly remove any weeds that compete with your groundcovers for resources. Mulching helps suppress weeds, but manual removal might be necessary sometimes.
Deadheading (optional): Some groundcovers benefit from deadheading spent blooms to encourage more flowering and prevent unwanted self-seeding. However, some provide winter interest with seed heads, so decide based on your preference.
Monitor and adjust: Keep an eye on your groundcovers and adjust your watering, weeding, or mulching practices as needed. Prune occasionally to maintain desired size and shape.

Additional tips:

Consider incorporating a variety of groundcovers with different textures, colors, and flowering times to add visual interest and dimension to your shade garden.
Native shade perennial groundcovers are often well-adapted to your local climate and conditions, requiring less maintenance and attracting beneficial pollinators.
If planting on a slope, choose groundcovers with good soil-holding capabilities to prevent erosion.

By following these steps and providing proper care, you can successfully plant and establish shade perennial groundcovers that will thrive in your shady garden for years to come.

What Are The best Varieties Of shade perennial plant groundcovers?

Choosing the best variety of shade perennial groundcover for your garden depends on several factors, including the amount of shade, the size of the area, your soil type, and your personal preferences. Here are some of the most popular and versatile options, categorized by their shade tolerance:

Deep Shade:

Barrenwort (Epimedium): This shade-loving perennial has attractive heart-shaped leaves and clusters of yellow, orange, or pink flowers in the spring. It is available in many different varieties with contrasting foliage colors, offering year-round visual interest.
Foamflower (Tiarella cordifolia): This low-growing perennial features heart-shaped leaves and delicate spikes of white or pink flowers in the spring. It is easy to care for and spreads slowly to form a dense carpet.
Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense): This evergreen groundcover boasts beautiful, kidney-shaped leaves with a spicy fragrance. It tolerates deep shade and moist soil, making it perfect for woodland gardens.

Partial Shade:

Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans): This fast-growing groundcover forms a dense mat of glossy green leaves with spikes of blue flowers in the spring. It is tolerant of foot traffic and helps suppress weeds.
Coral Bells (Heuchera): This versatile perennial comes in a wide range of foliage colors and textures, with some varieties even offering blooms in summer. It is relatively low-maintenance and adds a touch of vibrancy to shady areas.
Lilyturf (Liriope muscari): This evergreen perennial has grass-like leaves and spikes of lavender flowers in the late summer. It is deer-resistant and tolerates a variety of soil conditions.

Additional Factors to Consider:

Moisture needs: Some groundcovers prefer consistently moist soil, while others are more drought-tolerant. Choose plants that suit your watering habits and climate.
Spreading habits: Consider how quickly and aggressively the groundcover spreads. Some varieties, like sweet woodruff, can become invasive if not controlled, while others spread slowly and require minimal maintenance.
Maintenance level: If you prefer a low-maintenance garden, opt for groundcovers that require minimal watering, weeding, and fertilizing.

By considering these factors and exploring the wide variety of shade perennial groundcovers available, you can find the perfect options to add beauty, function, and texture to your shaded garden.

How Do I Care For shade perennial plant groundcovers In My Garden?

Caring for shade perennial groundcovers in your garden is quite easy, as they are low-maintenance plants. Here is a basic guide:

Watering:

Regular watering: Especially during their first year, water your groundcovers regularly, particularly during dry spells. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Adjust watering based on rainfall and your specific soil type.
Established plants: Once established, most shade perennial groundcovers are fairly drought-tolerant and require less frequent watering. However, monitor soil moisture and water during prolonged dry periods to prevent stress.

Fertilizing:

Light feeders: Most shade perennial groundcovers do not require heavy feeding. A light application of slow-release fertilizer in early spring might be sufficient, depending on your soil quality and plant needs. Overfertilizing can encourage excessive growth and weaken the plants' resistance to pests and diseases.

Weeding:

Early and regular: Regularly remove any weeds that compete with your groundcovers for resources, especially when they are young. Mulching helps suppress weeds, but manual removal might be necessary sometimes.

Mulching:

Benefits: Applying a layer of organic mulch, like shredded bark or wood chips, around the base of your plants offers several benefits. It helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, regulate soil temperature, and enrich the soil as it decomposes.
Application: Keep mulch away from the stems of your plants to prevent rot. Aim for a 2-3 inch layer of mulch, replenishing as needed throughout the season.

Deadheading (optional):

Encourages blooms: Some groundcovers benefit from deadheading spent blooms to encourage more flowering and prevent unwanted self-seeding. However, some provide winter interest with seed heads, so decide based on your preference.

Monitoring and adjustments:

Keep an eye: Regularly observe your groundcovers and adjust your watering, weeding, or mulching practices as needed. Prune occasionally to maintain desired size and shape. Address any pest or disease issues promptly.

Additional tips:

Fall cleanup: Remove fallen leaves in late fall or early winter to prevent smothering and disease issues. You can shred them and use them as mulch.
Dividing: Some groundcovers can be divided every few years to control their spread or rejuvenate older plants. Research the specific needs of your chosen varieties.
Enjoy the beauty: With proper care, your shade perennial groundcovers will thrive and add beauty, texture, and ecological value to your garden for years to come.

Remember, these are general guidelines, and the specific needs of your groundcovers may vary depending on the plant variety, climate, and soil conditions. Always research the specific needs of your chosen plants to ensure optimal care.

Shop by Category

Shop by Brand

Shop by Brand

Shade Groundcover

What are the characteristics of shade perennial plant groundcovers?

How Do I Plant shade perennial plant groundcovers?

What Are The best Varieties Of shade perennial plant groundcovers?

How Do I Care For shade perennial plant groundcovers In My Garden?