9 Ground Cover Plants to Master the Art of UK Garden Design

Posted on 16/05/2025

9 Ground Cover Plants to Master the Art of UK Garden Design

Ground cover plants are the unsung heroes of garden design. Not only do they add depth and texture, but they also help suppress weeds, reduce soil erosion, and bring a sense of unity to your outdoor space. In the UK, the varied climate and soil types open up a wealth of opportunities for selecting the right ground covers. Here, we explore nine versatile ground cover plants that can truly transform your garden.

1. Vinca minor (Lesser Periwinkle)

The Lesser Periwinkle, known for its creeping and spreading habits, creates a lush green carpet with its shiny leaves. Its pretty purple-blue flowers add a splash of colour from spring to autumn. This low-maintenance plant thrives in both _sun_ and _shade_, making it ideal for under planting or filling in difficult areas.

Growing Tips for Vinca minor

• Thrives in well-drained soil
• Prefers partial shade but can handle full sun
• Easy to propagate via stem cuttings

2. Ajuga reptans (Bugleweed)

Known for its vibrant foliage and striking blue spikes of flowers, _Ajuga reptans_ is perfect for adding a pop of colour. It spreads quickly, making it excellent for difficult areas such as slopes or shaded patches under trees.

Care Instructions for Ajuga reptans

• Prefers moist, well-drained soil
• Tolerates _light_ foot traffic
• Remove rogue runners to maintain shape

3. Thymus serpyllum (Wild Thyme)

For an aromatic and drought-tolerant option, consider _Wild Thyme_. This evergreen plant has tiny, fragrant leaves and thrives in sunny spots. Its pink-purple blossoms are a magnet for pollinators.

Cultivation Tips for Thymus serpyllum

• Grows best in sandy, rocky soil
• Full sun exposure is ideal
• Low water requirement - drought-resistant once established

4. Galium odoratum (Sweet Woodruff)

With a delicate fragrance and starry white blooms, _Sweet Woodruff_ is a charming addition to shaded gardens. It works well as a ground cover under trees and shrubs due to its _hardy_ nature.

Guidelines for Growing Galium odoratum

• Thrives in moist, well-drained soil
• Enjoys full to partial shade
• Spreads rapidly, excellent for larger areas

5. Sedum spurium (Caucasian Stonecrop)

This succulent, also known as Two-row Stonecrop, offers a _stunning_ display with its foliage that changes colour throughout the seasons. Its hardiness and drought tolerance make it an excellent choice for rock gardens or green roofs.

How to Grow Sedum spurium

• Prefers well-drained, gritty soil
• Needs plenty of sunlight
• Low maintenance, but avoid overwatering

6. Heuchera (Coral Bells)

Available in striking shades of purple, red, and silver, Heuchera offers unparalleled colour and texture. Its compact form makes it ideal for front borders or as a filler in mixed containers.

Planting Tips for Heuchera

• Fits well in loamy, well-drained soil
• Enjoys partial _shade_
• Cut back the flower stems after blooming to encourage new growth

7. Pachysandra terminalis (Japanese Spurge)

_Pachysandra terminalis_ is the go-to for shade-loving areas. Its lush green foliage creates a dense ground cover, ideal for formal gardens or underplanting.

Guide to Growing Pachysandra terminalis

• Tolerates a range of soil types, though prefers slightly acidic terrain
• Does best in full to partial shade
• Prune in early spring to maintain vigour

8. Lavandula angustifolia (English Lavender)

This classic choice is not only known for its fragrant flowers but also its ability to withstand dry conditions. _English Lavender_ is perfect for borders or as a fragrant accent in sunny, well-drained locations.

Care Instructions for Lavandula angustifolia

• Prefers alkaline, well-drained soil
• Thrives in full sun exposure
• Regular pruning encourages bushy growth

9. Campanula portenschlagiana (Dalmatian Bellflower)

Known for its charming bell-shaped flowers, _Dalmatian Bellflower_ offers a vibrant splash of blue, making it a _popular_ choice for filling in crevices between stone steps or along pathways.

Instructions for Cultivating Campanula portenschlagiana

• Grows well in loamy, well-drained soil
• Thrives in full to partial sun
• Deadhead spent blooms for a longer flowering period

The right ground cover can enhance your UK garden design, offering texture, colour, and a natural weed barrier. Whether you are creating a formal garden or a wild, untamed space, these nine plants provide endless possibilities for creativity and sustainability.

By selecting plants that match your garden's specific conditions and your personal aesthetics, you'll create a landscape that's both visually appealing and ecologically friendly. Happy gardening!