There are many excellent reasons to plant ground covers. They break up expanses of gravel, adding color and texture to desert landscapes. They keep the ground cool for surrounding plants. They can prevent erosion and water run-off. Some can even take the place of a lawn.
Ground covers can be plants you normally think of as perennials, small shrubs, succulents, or even vines that have been allowed to sprawl.
Here at Southwest Gardener, you’ll find in-depth information to help you choose and care for ground covers that will add beauty to your desert garden.
Gregg’s mist is a captivating, native perennial that butterflies can’t resist! Here’s everything you need to know about taking care of this butterfly magnet, including the amazing reason butterflies flock … Read more
Outback sunrise emu is an evergreen ground cover that’s blanketed with yellow flowers in the spring. Here’s how to plant and care for this extremely low-maintenance Australian native. Outback sunrise … Read more
Gopher plant is a succulent-like ground cover that’s studded with vivid chartreuse flowers that almost glow every spring. Here’s how to plant and care for this Mediterranean perennial. Gopher plant … Read more
Candelilla is comprised of numerous delicate-looking stems, but this succulent is surprisingly sturdy. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for this resilient Chihuahuan Desert native. Candelilla … Read more
Blackfoot daisy is a desert native ground cover. It has adorable white flowers and is much tougher than it looks. Here’s how to grow and care for this perennial. Blackfoot … Read more
Cape honeysuckle is a sprawling plant that can easily be grown as either a shrub or a vine. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for this … Read more
Blue elf is a hardy, compact aloe that blooms in the winter when little else is blooming. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for this carefree … Read more
Lantana ‘Dallas Red’ is a desert-adapted ground cover that’s carpeted with fiery red flowers all summer long. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and taking care of this … Read more
Baby sun rose is an evergreen ground cover with an abundance of cheerful red flowers. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for this delightful perennial. Baby … Read more
Lantana ‘New Gold’ is a desert-adapted ground cover that bursts with yellow-gold flowers all summer long. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and taking care of this low-maintenance … Read more