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.
Trailing lantana is an evergreen ground cover that’s blanketed with lavender flowers from spring through winter’s first freeze. In mild winters, it will bloom nonstop all year. Here’s how to … Read more
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 cultivar of an Australian … Read more
Gopher plant is one of the first desert landscape plants to bloom in late winter, when it’s studded with vivid chartreuse flowers that almost glow. Here’s how to grow this … 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 perennial ground cover that, for much of the year, is smothered in adorable daisy-like flowers. This small plant is much tougher than it looks. Here’s how … Read more
Cape honeysuckle is a colorful, sprawling plant that can easily be grown as either a shrub or a vine depending on how it’s pruned. Here’s everything you need to know … 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
‘Dallas Red’ lantana 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, shade-loving South … Read more
‘New Gold’ lantana 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