As water conservation becomes increasingly crucial in Texas, many homeowners are seeking alternatives to traditional grass lawns. Ground covers offer a practical, low-maintenance, and eco-friendly solution that can enhance the beauty and sustainability of landscapes. Whether you’re looking for lush greenery or a colorful carpet of flowers, here are some of the best ground covers suited for the Texas climate.
- Lantana (Lantana spp.)
Lantana is a hardy, drought-tolerant plant that thrives in Texas heat. Its vibrant blooms range in color from yellow and orange to pink and red, providing a striking visual appeal. This perennial ground cover requires minimal water once established and attracts butterflies, making it a delightful addition to any garden. Lantana can spread quickly, so it’s ideal for large areas that need coverage. - Asian Jasmine (Trachelospermum asiaticum)
Asian Jasmine is a versatile evergreen ground cover known for its glossy, dark green leaves. It grows well in sun or shade and is highly resistant to drought, making it an excellent choice for Texas landscapes. Asian Jasmine forms a dense mat that effectively suppresses weeds, and its fragrant white flowers add a pleasant aroma in the spring. It’s perfect for erosion control on slopes and as an attractive border plant. - Purple Heart (Tradescantia pallida)
For a pop of color, Purple Heart is an eye-catching ground cover with deep purple leaves and delicate pink flowers. This plant thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. It is drought-tolerant and grows quickly, making it a low-maintenance option for adding vibrant color to your landscape. Purple Heart is also a great choice for containers and hanging baskets. - Sedum (Sedum spp.)
Sedums, commonly known as stonecrops, are succulent ground covers that come in various shapes and colors. They are exceptionally drought-tolerant and thrive in poor, rocky soils, making them perfect for Texas landscapes. Sedums form a dense mat of foliage and produce clusters of small, star-shaped flowers. They are ideal for rock gardens, borders, and as a filler between stepping stones. - Frogfruit (Phyla nodiflora)
Frogfruit is a native Texas ground cover that offers ecological benefits alongside its beauty. It features small, white flowers that attract pollinators like butterflies and bees. Frogfruit is highly adaptable, growing well in sun or partial shade and tolerating both wet and dry conditions. It’s a fantastic alternative to traditional turf grass, especially for areas with heavy foot traffic. - Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum)
Creeping Thyme is a fragrant, low-growing herb that serves as an excellent ground cover. It’s drought-tolerant, thrives in full sun, and produces small, lavender-pink flowers that attract pollinators. This herb is perfect for planting between pavers or as a border plant, releasing a pleasant aroma when walked on. Creeping Thyme is also a culinary herb, adding flavor to your dishes. - Horseherb (Calyptocarpus vialis)
Horseherb is a resilient native ground cover that flourishes in a variety of conditions, including shade. It has small, yellow flowers and bright green leaves, providing a lush appearance. Horseherb is particularly useful for shaded areas under trees where grass struggles to grow. It’s low-maintenance and can handle periods of drought, making it a practical choice for water-wise landscaping.
Choosing the right ground cover for your Texas landscape not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also contributes to environmental sustainability. These alternatives to traditional grass lawns offer benefits like reduced water usage, lower maintenance, and increased biodiversity. Whether you’re aiming for a colorful garden or a simple, green carpet, there’s a ground cover that can meet your needs and thrive in the Texas climate.
