Ground cover plants as natural soil protection


Ground cover plants as natural soil protection


Ground cover plants are a simple and effective way to keep the garden lush while protecting the soil from drying out, weeds, and erosion. They form a living carpet that both decorates and acts as a natural barrier against wear and weather. Whether you want a dense green cover under trees, a flowering layer in the beds, or a practical solution for slopes, there are ground cover plants for every garden and taste.
In this article, you’ll get an overview of what to consider when choosing ground cover plants, as well as an introduction to different types and brands that offer quality plants for the purpose.
The article presents a selection of ground cover plants representing different species, growth forms, and uses. The aim is to provide a broad overview of the options so you can more easily find plants that suit your garden and your needs. The product information is based on descriptions from manufacturers and retailers and is summarised to give a clear and informative insight into the characteristics of each plant.
Factors to consider when buying a ground cover plant
When choosing ground cover plants, it’s important to take into account growth conditions, aesthetics, and maintenance. Here are some of the most important factors to consider.
1. Light conditions and soil type
Some ground cover plants thrive best in sun, while others prefer shade. Check the conditions in the area where the plants will grow. The nature of the soil – whether sandy, clayey, or moist – also has a major impact on the plant’s growth.
2. Growth rate and height
Ground cover plants vary in growth rate. Fast-growing species cover the soil quickly but may require more pruning. Low-growing varieties are ideal for creating a dense carpet, while taller types can add structure and variation to the bed.
3. Flowering and appearance
Consider whether you want flowering ground cover plants or prefer green, evergreen species. Flowering varieties such as cranesbill and lavender add colour and attract insects, while evergreens such as ivy and wild strawberry provide a green look all year round.
4. Maintenance
Most ground cover plants require minimal care once established. However, some may need pruning or thinning to maintain a neat appearance. Choose species that match the level of maintenance you prefer.
5. Climate and hardiness
Check the plants’ hardiness zones to ensure they can handle the local climate. Some species tolerate frost and wind better than others, which is important in exposed gardens.
Products in focus

Soft Lady's Mantle (Alchemilla mollis) is a perennial plant used as ground cover in gardens and green spaces. It forms a low, dense growth with soft, slightly hairy leaves that collect dew drops and give the plant a distinctive appearance.
The plant thrives in both sun and partial shade and does well in ordinary garden soil. It typically grows 30–50 cm tall and 20–40 cm wide and spreads evenly, making it suitable for covering the ground and suppressing weeds.
Flowering occurs from June to September, when small lime-green to yellow-green flowers gather in loose clusters. The light flower heads add a fresh play of colour to the bed without being dominant.
The foliage is decorative and can be used in bouquets and decorations. The plant is hardy, easy to grow, and requires minimal care, making it suitable for both private gardens and larger plantings.
- Long flowering period: From June to September with lime-green flowers.
- Decorative foliage: Soft, hairy leaves with a distinctive shape.
- Suitable as ground cover: Forms a dense green carpet that suppresses weeds.
- Undemanding and hardy: Thrives in sun to partial shade and ordinary garden soil.
- Suitable for cutting: The foliage can be used in bouquets and decorations.
Pros and cons
- Easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance
- Tolerates both sun and partial shade
- Long flowering period
- Effective as ground cover
- Decorative in both beds and bouquets
- Can spread more than desired if not kept in check
- The flowers may appear subtle in colour compared to more colourful perennials
Pros and cons
Pros
- Easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance
- Tolerates both sun and partial shade
- Long flowering period
- Effective as ground cover
- Decorative in both beds and bouquets
Cons
- Can spread more than desired if not kept in check
- The flowers may appear subtle in colour compared to more colourful perennials
Pros
- Easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance
- Tolerates both sun and partial shade
- Long flowering period
- Effective as ground cover
- Decorative in both beds and bouquets
Cons
- Can spread more than desired if not kept in check
- The flowers may appear subtle in colour compared to more colourful perennials
Specifications
- Botanical name: Alchemilla mollis
- Danish name: Soft Lady's Mantle
- Plant height: 30–50 cm
- Plant width: 20–40 cm
- Flowering time: June–September
- Flower colour: Lime green to yellow green
- Leaf colour: Green
- Light conditions: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Ordinary garden soil, medium nutrient level
- Plant density: 6–9 plants per m²
- Growth form: Ground-covering, medium growth
- Hardiness: Fully hardy
- Use: Gardens and parks, ground cover, cutting

St. John's Wort (Hypericum calycinum) is a ground cover plant that forms a dense green carpet in the garden. It is partially evergreen and has elongated green leaves on reddish stems, giving a lively appearance all year round.
The plant blooms from July to September with large yellow flowers that have long styles and add colour and structure to the bed. It can be used both as ground cover and as a cut flower for bouquets.
St. John's Wort spreads quickly via root shoots and tolerates pruning, making it suitable for covering larger areas. It thrives best in good loamy soil and does well in both sun and partial shade.
With a height of around 30–50 cm and a planting distance of about 55 cm, it is suitable for creating a uniform, low plant cover that is also robust against the Danish climate.
- Long flowering period: Blooms from July to September with large yellow flowers.
- Robust growth: Tolerates pruning and spreads effectively via root shoots.
- Partially evergreen: Retains some of its foliage through the winter.
- Suitable ground cover: Forms a dense green carpet that suppresses weeds.
- Thrives in sun and partial shade: Adapts to different light conditions and soil types.
Pros and cons
- Hardy and undemanding plant that thrives in the Danish climate
- Long flowering period with decorative yellow flowers
- Requires minimal maintenance after establishment
- Suitable for both sun and partial shade
- Can be used as ground cover or in bouquets
- Spreads quickly and may require control to avoid unwanted spreading
- Requires regular fertilisation for optimal growth and flowering
Pros and cons
Pros
- Hardy and undemanding plant that thrives in the Danish climate
- Long flowering period with decorative yellow flowers
- Requires minimal maintenance after establishment
- Suitable for both sun and partial shade
- Can be used as ground cover or in bouquets
Cons
- Spreads quickly and may require control to avoid unwanted spreading
- Requires regular fertilisation for optimal growth and flowering
Pros
- Hardy and undemanding plant that thrives in the Danish climate
- Long flowering period with decorative yellow flowers
- Requires minimal maintenance after establishment
- Suitable for both sun and partial shade
- Can be used as ground cover or in bouquets
Cons
- Spreads quickly and may require control to avoid unwanted spreading
- Requires regular fertilisation for optimal growth and flowering
Specifications
- Botanical name: Hypericum calycinum
- Category: Ground cover plant
- Height: 30–50 cm
- Width: 10–20 cm
- Planting distance: approx. 55 cm
- Flower colour: Yellow
- Flowering period: July–September
- Leaf colour: Green
- Light conditions: Full sun or partial shade
- Growth form: Upright
- Growth type: Medium-growing
- Hardiness: Fully hardy in the Danish climate
- Use: Ground cover, gardens, cutting
- Fertilisation level: Medium

Quaking Grass (Briza media) is a perennial ornamental grass that forms low tufts with short runners. It grows best in light to partial shade and prefers calcareous soil. The plant is native to Denmark and naturally occurs in meadows and grasslands.
The grass grows to about 30 cm tall, while the seed heads can reach up to 40 cm. The small, heart-shaped seed heads hang lightly on thin stems and move in the wind, giving a light and lively expression in the planting.
The colour of the seed heads changes throughout the season – from blue-green in spring to golden brown in late summer. Flowering occurs from May to August, and the seeds are readily eaten by small birds.
Quaking Grass is well suited for group planting, where 9 plants per square metre provide a dense and natural cover. It can be used as ground cover along lawns, in perennial beds, or in more naturalistic gardens.
- Low-growing tuft grass: Forms dense tufts with short runners.
- Decorative seed heads: Small heart-shaped seed heads that move gently in the wind.
- Colour change through the season: From blue-green to golden brown seed heads.
- Flowering period: May to August.
- Native species: Naturally occurring in Denmark and host plant for the Meadow Brown butterfly.
Pros and cons
- Natural appearance and movement in the planting
- Suitable as ground cover in light to partial shade
- Low maintenance and robust growth
- Attracts insects and birds
- Requires well-drained and preferably calcareous soil to thrive optimally
- May appear delicate as a solitary plant and looks best in groups
Pros and cons
Pros
- Natural appearance and movement in the planting
- Suitable as ground cover in light to partial shade
- Low maintenance and robust growth
- Attracts insects and birds
Cons
- Requires well-drained and preferably calcareous soil to thrive optimally
- May appear delicate as a solitary plant and looks best in groups
Pros
- Natural appearance and movement in the planting
- Suitable as ground cover in light to partial shade
- Low maintenance and robust growth
- Attracts insects and birds
Cons
- Requires well-drained and preferably calcareous soil to thrive optimally
- May appear delicate as a solitary plant and looks best in groups
Specifications
- Botanical name: Briza media
- Danish name: Quaking Grass
- Plant height: Tuft approx. 30 cm, seed heads up to 40 cm
- Growth form: Tuft-forming with short runners
- Placement: Light to partial shade
- Flowering period: May–August
- Plant density: 9 plants per m²
- Category: Ground-covering perennials
- Main category: Ground cover
- Origin: Native to Denmark

Large-leaved Ivy (Hedera hibernica) is an evergreen plant used as ground cover or a climbing plant. It forms a dense, green carpet that effectively suppresses weeds and helps retain soil moisture. The plant has large, dark green, heart-shaped leaves and a vigorous growth habit, making it suitable for covering larger areas.
The ivy thrives best in ordinary, well-drained soil and can grow in sun, partial shade, and shade. However, it prefers slightly acidic soil and performs particularly well on north-facing slopes. For optimal growth, fertilisation with ammonium sulphate can be applied if the plants show signs of weak development.
The plant is fully hardy and retains its foliage all year round, providing a stable green appearance throughout all seasons. It can be used as ground cover under shrubs and trees or as a climbing plant on walls and fences. When planting, 8–10 plants per square metre are recommended to achieve an even cover.
Large-leaved Ivy is also known for attracting insects such as the holly blue butterfly, which can contribute to increased biodiversity in the garden.
- Evergreen: Retains its leaves all year round and provides a green appearance throughout the year.
- Versatile use: Can be used both as ground cover and as a climbing plant.
- Shade tolerant: Thrives in sun, partial shade, and shade.
- Low maintenance: Only requires pruning if it spreads too much.
- Hardy: Tolerates the Danish climate and grows in ordinary garden soil.
Pros and cons
- Forms a dense and lasting ground cover
- Suitable for shady areas
- Can also be used as a climbing plant
- Evergreen and hardy
- Requires minimal care after establishment
- Can spread vigorously and requires pruning to keep it in place
- Prefers slightly acidic soil and may perform poorly in heavy, wet soil
Pros and cons
Pros
- Forms a dense and lasting ground cover
- Suitable for shady areas
- Can also be used as a climbing plant
- Evergreen and hardy
- Requires minimal care after establishment
Cons
- Can spread vigorously and requires pruning to keep it in place
- Prefers slightly acidic soil and may perform poorly in heavy, wet soil
Pros
- Forms a dense and lasting ground cover
- Suitable for shady areas
- Can also be used as a climbing plant
- Evergreen and hardy
- Requires minimal care after establishment
Cons
- Can spread vigorously and requires pruning to keep it in place
- Prefers slightly acidic soil and may perform poorly in heavy, wet soil
Specifications
- Botanical name: Hedera hibernica
- Plant category: Ground cover / Ivy
- Use: Ground cover, climbing plant on walls and trees
- Leaf colour: Green to dark green
- Leaf shape: Heart-shaped
- Growth habit: Climbing, self-clinging
- Placement: Sun, partial shade, shade
- Height: 800–1000 cm (as a climbing plant)
- Hardiness: Fully hardy
- Fertilisation level: Medium
- Plant density: 8–10 plants per m²
- Soil type: Ordinary, well-drained, slightly acidic soil

Vinterglans (Pachysandra terminalis) is a low-growing, evergreen plant often used as ground cover in gardens and parks. It forms dense, green carpets that effectively cover the soil and suppress weeds.
The plant thrives best in partial shade to shade and prefers acidic soil. It has oval, dark green leaves that retain their colour all year round, and in spring it develops small, white flowers with a subtle appearance.
Vinterglans grows moderately and reaches about 25 cm in height with a width of 20–40 cm. It is fully hardy and therefore well suited to the Danish climate. With a planting distance of 35–50 cm, it can quickly form a dense plant cover.
The plant is typically used under trees, in shady beds or on slopes, where it contributes to a green and uniform appearance all year round.
- Evergreen ground cover plant: Retains its green colour all year round.
- Shade-tolerant: Thrives in partially shaded and shady areas.
- Low growth: Approx. 25 cm high and 20–40 cm wide.
- Spring flowering: Small white flowers in May.
- Robust and hardy: Suitable for Danish conditions and requires minimal maintenance.
Pros and cons
- Evergreen and decorative all year round
- Suitable for shady areas
- Requires little maintenance
- Effectively suppresses weeds as ground cover
- Fully hardy in the Danish climate
- Does not thrive in full sun or dry soil
- Growth is moderate, so full coverage may take time
Pros and cons
Pros
- Evergreen and decorative all year round
- Suitable for shady areas
- Requires little maintenance
- Effectively suppresses weeds as ground cover
- Fully hardy in the Danish climate
Cons
- Does not thrive in full sun or dry soil
- Growth is moderate, so full coverage may take time
Pros
- Evergreen and decorative all year round
- Suitable for shady areas
- Requires little maintenance
- Effectively suppresses weeds as ground cover
- Fully hardy in the Danish climate
Cons
- Does not thrive in full sun or dry soil
- Growth is moderate, so full coverage may take time
Specifications
- Botanical name: Pachysandra terminalis
- Plant height: approx. 25 cm
- Width: 20–40 cm
- Flower colour: White, greenish
- Flowering period: Spring (May)
- Leaf colour: Green to dark green
- Leaf shape: Oval
- Light conditions: Partial shade to shade
- Soil type: Acidic soil
- Growth form: Ground covering
- Growth: Moderately growing
- Hardiness: Fully hardy
- Plant spacing: 35–50 cm
- Use: Gardens and parks, ground cover under trees

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a hardy perennial that forms dense clumps and is well suited as ground cover in sunny gardens. It grows best in well-drained soil and can be used for naturalising, where it quickly spreads and covers the ground effectively.
The plant grows to about 60 cm tall and develops flat flower heads with many small white flowers, which can take on a faint pink hue towards the end of flowering. Flowering occurs from July to September.
Yarrow has finely divided, fragrant foliage and tolerates drought. It is suitable for cutting and drying and has historically been used as a medicinal plant. The species attracts many insects, including bees, hoverflies, and butterflies, and serves as a host plant for several moths.
When planting, a density of about six plants per square metre is recommended to achieve continuous ground cover.
- Light growing site: Thrives best in sun and well-drained soil.
- Height: About 60 cm at full growth.
- Flowering: July to September with white to slightly pink flowers.
- Drought-tolerant: Suitable for areas with limited watering.
- Insect-friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Pros and cons
- Robust and drought-tolerant perennial
- Suitable as ground cover and for naturalising
- Long flowering period in mid-summer
- Attracts many beneficial insects
- Can be used for cutting and drying
- Requires sun and well-drained soil for optimal growth
- Can spread vigorously, requiring control in smaller beds
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust and drought-tolerant perennial
- Suitable as ground cover and for naturalising
- Long flowering period in mid-summer
- Attracts many beneficial insects
- Can be used for cutting and drying
Cons
- Requires sun and well-drained soil for optimal growth
- Can spread vigorously, requiring control in smaller beds
Pros
- Robust and drought-tolerant perennial
- Suitable as ground cover and for naturalising
- Long flowering period in mid-summer
- Attracts many beneficial insects
- Can be used for cutting and drying
Cons
- Requires sun and well-drained soil for optimal growth
- Can spread vigorously, requiring control in smaller beds
Specifications
- Botanical name: Achillea millefolium
- Plant height: approx. 60 cm
- Plant density: 6 plants per m²
- Flowering period: July–September
- Flower colour: White, sometimes light pink towards the end of flowering
- Growing conditions: Light growing site, well-drained soil
- Characteristics: Drought-tolerant, fragrant foliage, suitable for cutting and drying
- Category: Ground-covering perennials
- Main category: Ground cover
Product descriptions

Soft Lady's Mantle (Alchemilla mollis) is a perennial plant used as ground cover in gardens and green spaces. It forms a low, dense growth with soft, slightly hairy leaves that collect dew drops and give the plant a distinctive appearance.
The plant thrives in both sun and partial shade and does well in ordinary garden soil. It typically grows 30–50 cm tall and 20–40 cm wide and spreads evenly, making it suitable for covering the ground and suppressing weeds.
Flowering occurs from June to September, when small lime-green to yellow-green flowers gather in loose clusters. The light flower heads add a fresh play of colour to the bed without being dominant.
The foliage is decorative and can be used in bouquets and decorations. The plant is hardy, easy to grow, and requires minimal care, making it suitable for both private gardens and larger plantings.
- Long flowering period: From June to September with lime-green flowers.
- Decorative foliage: Soft, hairy leaves with a distinctive shape.
- Suitable as ground cover: Forms a dense green carpet that suppresses weeds.
- Undemanding and hardy: Thrives in sun to partial shade and ordinary garden soil.
- Suitable for cutting: The foliage can be used in bouquets and decorations.
Pros and cons
- Easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance
- Tolerates both sun and partial shade
- Long flowering period
- Effective as ground cover
- Decorative in both beds and bouquets
- Can spread more than desired if not kept in check
- The flowers may appear subtle in colour compared to more colourful perennials
Pros and cons
Pros
- Easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance
- Tolerates both sun and partial shade
- Long flowering period
- Effective as ground cover
- Decorative in both beds and bouquets
Cons
- Can spread more than desired if not kept in check
- The flowers may appear subtle in colour compared to more colourful perennials
Pros
- Easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance
- Tolerates both sun and partial shade
- Long flowering period
- Effective as ground cover
- Decorative in both beds and bouquets
Cons
- Can spread more than desired if not kept in check
- The flowers may appear subtle in colour compared to more colourful perennials
Specifications
- Botanical name: Alchemilla mollis
- Danish name: Soft Lady's Mantle
- Plant height: 30–50 cm
- Plant width: 20–40 cm
- Flowering time: June–September
- Flower colour: Lime green to yellow green
- Leaf colour: Green
- Light conditions: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Ordinary garden soil, medium nutrient level
- Plant density: 6–9 plants per m²
- Growth form: Ground-covering, medium growth
- Hardiness: Fully hardy
- Use: Gardens and parks, ground cover, cutting

St. John's Wort (Hypericum calycinum) is a ground cover plant that forms a dense green carpet in the garden. It is partially evergreen and has elongated green leaves on reddish stems, giving a lively appearance all year round.
The plant blooms from July to September with large yellow flowers that have long styles and add colour and structure to the bed. It can be used both as ground cover and as a cut flower for bouquets.
St. John's Wort spreads quickly via root shoots and tolerates pruning, making it suitable for covering larger areas. It thrives best in good loamy soil and does well in both sun and partial shade.
With a height of around 30–50 cm and a planting distance of about 55 cm, it is suitable for creating a uniform, low plant cover that is also robust against the Danish climate.
- Long flowering period: Blooms from July to September with large yellow flowers.
- Robust growth: Tolerates pruning and spreads effectively via root shoots.
- Partially evergreen: Retains some of its foliage through the winter.
- Suitable ground cover: Forms a dense green carpet that suppresses weeds.
- Thrives in sun and partial shade: Adapts to different light conditions and soil types.
Pros and cons
- Hardy and undemanding plant that thrives in the Danish climate
- Long flowering period with decorative yellow flowers
- Requires minimal maintenance after establishment
- Suitable for both sun and partial shade
- Can be used as ground cover or in bouquets
- Spreads quickly and may require control to avoid unwanted spreading
- Requires regular fertilisation for optimal growth and flowering
Pros and cons
Pros
- Hardy and undemanding plant that thrives in the Danish climate
- Long flowering period with decorative yellow flowers
- Requires minimal maintenance after establishment
- Suitable for both sun and partial shade
- Can be used as ground cover or in bouquets
Cons
- Spreads quickly and may require control to avoid unwanted spreading
- Requires regular fertilisation for optimal growth and flowering
Pros
- Hardy and undemanding plant that thrives in the Danish climate
- Long flowering period with decorative yellow flowers
- Requires minimal maintenance after establishment
- Suitable for both sun and partial shade
- Can be used as ground cover or in bouquets
Cons
- Spreads quickly and may require control to avoid unwanted spreading
- Requires regular fertilisation for optimal growth and flowering
Specifications
- Botanical name: Hypericum calycinum
- Category: Ground cover plant
- Height: 30–50 cm
- Width: 10–20 cm
- Planting distance: approx. 55 cm
- Flower colour: Yellow
- Flowering period: July–September
- Leaf colour: Green
- Light conditions: Full sun or partial shade
- Growth form: Upright
- Growth type: Medium-growing
- Hardiness: Fully hardy in the Danish climate
- Use: Ground cover, gardens, cutting
- Fertilisation level: Medium

Quaking Grass (Briza media) is a perennial ornamental grass that forms low tufts with short runners. It grows best in light to partial shade and prefers calcareous soil. The plant is native to Denmark and naturally occurs in meadows and grasslands.
The grass grows to about 30 cm tall, while the seed heads can reach up to 40 cm. The small, heart-shaped seed heads hang lightly on thin stems and move in the wind, giving a light and lively expression in the planting.
The colour of the seed heads changes throughout the season – from blue-green in spring to golden brown in late summer. Flowering occurs from May to August, and the seeds are readily eaten by small birds.
Quaking Grass is well suited for group planting, where 9 plants per square metre provide a dense and natural cover. It can be used as ground cover along lawns, in perennial beds, or in more naturalistic gardens.
- Low-growing tuft grass: Forms dense tufts with short runners.
- Decorative seed heads: Small heart-shaped seed heads that move gently in the wind.
- Colour change through the season: From blue-green to golden brown seed heads.
- Flowering period: May to August.
- Native species: Naturally occurring in Denmark and host plant for the Meadow Brown butterfly.
Pros and cons
- Natural appearance and movement in the planting
- Suitable as ground cover in light to partial shade
- Low maintenance and robust growth
- Attracts insects and birds
- Requires well-drained and preferably calcareous soil to thrive optimally
- May appear delicate as a solitary plant and looks best in groups
Pros and cons
Pros
- Natural appearance and movement in the planting
- Suitable as ground cover in light to partial shade
- Low maintenance and robust growth
- Attracts insects and birds
Cons
- Requires well-drained and preferably calcareous soil to thrive optimally
- May appear delicate as a solitary plant and looks best in groups
Pros
- Natural appearance and movement in the planting
- Suitable as ground cover in light to partial shade
- Low maintenance and robust growth
- Attracts insects and birds
Cons
- Requires well-drained and preferably calcareous soil to thrive optimally
- May appear delicate as a solitary plant and looks best in groups
Specifications
- Botanical name: Briza media
- Danish name: Quaking Grass
- Plant height: Tuft approx. 30 cm, seed heads up to 40 cm
- Growth form: Tuft-forming with short runners
- Placement: Light to partial shade
- Flowering period: May–August
- Plant density: 9 plants per m²
- Category: Ground-covering perennials
- Main category: Ground cover
- Origin: Native to Denmark

Large-leaved Ivy (Hedera hibernica) is an evergreen plant used as ground cover or a climbing plant. It forms a dense, green carpet that effectively suppresses weeds and helps retain soil moisture. The plant has large, dark green, heart-shaped leaves and a vigorous growth habit, making it suitable for covering larger areas.
The ivy thrives best in ordinary, well-drained soil and can grow in sun, partial shade, and shade. However, it prefers slightly acidic soil and performs particularly well on north-facing slopes. For optimal growth, fertilisation with ammonium sulphate can be applied if the plants show signs of weak development.
The plant is fully hardy and retains its foliage all year round, providing a stable green appearance throughout all seasons. It can be used as ground cover under shrubs and trees or as a climbing plant on walls and fences. When planting, 8–10 plants per square metre are recommended to achieve an even cover.
Large-leaved Ivy is also known for attracting insects such as the holly blue butterfly, which can contribute to increased biodiversity in the garden.
- Evergreen: Retains its leaves all year round and provides a green appearance throughout the year.
- Versatile use: Can be used both as ground cover and as a climbing plant.
- Shade tolerant: Thrives in sun, partial shade, and shade.
- Low maintenance: Only requires pruning if it spreads too much.
- Hardy: Tolerates the Danish climate and grows in ordinary garden soil.
Pros and cons
- Forms a dense and lasting ground cover
- Suitable for shady areas
- Can also be used as a climbing plant
- Evergreen and hardy
- Requires minimal care after establishment
- Can spread vigorously and requires pruning to keep it in place
- Prefers slightly acidic soil and may perform poorly in heavy, wet soil
Pros and cons
Pros
- Forms a dense and lasting ground cover
- Suitable for shady areas
- Can also be used as a climbing plant
- Evergreen and hardy
- Requires minimal care after establishment
Cons
- Can spread vigorously and requires pruning to keep it in place
- Prefers slightly acidic soil and may perform poorly in heavy, wet soil
Pros
- Forms a dense and lasting ground cover
- Suitable for shady areas
- Can also be used as a climbing plant
- Evergreen and hardy
- Requires minimal care after establishment
Cons
- Can spread vigorously and requires pruning to keep it in place
- Prefers slightly acidic soil and may perform poorly in heavy, wet soil
Specifications
- Botanical name: Hedera hibernica
- Plant category: Ground cover / Ivy
- Use: Ground cover, climbing plant on walls and trees
- Leaf colour: Green to dark green
- Leaf shape: Heart-shaped
- Growth habit: Climbing, self-clinging
- Placement: Sun, partial shade, shade
- Height: 800–1000 cm (as a climbing plant)
- Hardiness: Fully hardy
- Fertilisation level: Medium
- Plant density: 8–10 plants per m²
- Soil type: Ordinary, well-drained, slightly acidic soil

Vinterglans (Pachysandra terminalis) is a low-growing, evergreen plant often used as ground cover in gardens and parks. It forms dense, green carpets that effectively cover the soil and suppress weeds.
The plant thrives best in partial shade to shade and prefers acidic soil. It has oval, dark green leaves that retain their colour all year round, and in spring it develops small, white flowers with a subtle appearance.
Vinterglans grows moderately and reaches about 25 cm in height with a width of 20–40 cm. It is fully hardy and therefore well suited to the Danish climate. With a planting distance of 35–50 cm, it can quickly form a dense plant cover.
The plant is typically used under trees, in shady beds or on slopes, where it contributes to a green and uniform appearance all year round.
- Evergreen ground cover plant: Retains its green colour all year round.
- Shade-tolerant: Thrives in partially shaded and shady areas.
- Low growth: Approx. 25 cm high and 20–40 cm wide.
- Spring flowering: Small white flowers in May.
- Robust and hardy: Suitable for Danish conditions and requires minimal maintenance.
Pros and cons
- Evergreen and decorative all year round
- Suitable for shady areas
- Requires little maintenance
- Effectively suppresses weeds as ground cover
- Fully hardy in the Danish climate
- Does not thrive in full sun or dry soil
- Growth is moderate, so full coverage may take time
Pros and cons
Pros
- Evergreen and decorative all year round
- Suitable for shady areas
- Requires little maintenance
- Effectively suppresses weeds as ground cover
- Fully hardy in the Danish climate
Cons
- Does not thrive in full sun or dry soil
- Growth is moderate, so full coverage may take time
Pros
- Evergreen and decorative all year round
- Suitable for shady areas
- Requires little maintenance
- Effectively suppresses weeds as ground cover
- Fully hardy in the Danish climate
Cons
- Does not thrive in full sun or dry soil
- Growth is moderate, so full coverage may take time
Specifications
- Botanical name: Pachysandra terminalis
- Plant height: approx. 25 cm
- Width: 20–40 cm
- Flower colour: White, greenish
- Flowering period: Spring (May)
- Leaf colour: Green to dark green
- Leaf shape: Oval
- Light conditions: Partial shade to shade
- Soil type: Acidic soil
- Growth form: Ground covering
- Growth: Moderately growing
- Hardiness: Fully hardy
- Plant spacing: 35–50 cm
- Use: Gardens and parks, ground cover under trees

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a hardy perennial that forms dense clumps and is well suited as ground cover in sunny gardens. It grows best in well-drained soil and can be used for naturalising, where it quickly spreads and covers the ground effectively.
The plant grows to about 60 cm tall and develops flat flower heads with many small white flowers, which can take on a faint pink hue towards the end of flowering. Flowering occurs from July to September.
Yarrow has finely divided, fragrant foliage and tolerates drought. It is suitable for cutting and drying and has historically been used as a medicinal plant. The species attracts many insects, including bees, hoverflies, and butterflies, and serves as a host plant for several moths.
When planting, a density of about six plants per square metre is recommended to achieve continuous ground cover.
- Light growing site: Thrives best in sun and well-drained soil.
- Height: About 60 cm at full growth.
- Flowering: July to September with white to slightly pink flowers.
- Drought-tolerant: Suitable for areas with limited watering.
- Insect-friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Pros and cons
- Robust and drought-tolerant perennial
- Suitable as ground cover and for naturalising
- Long flowering period in mid-summer
- Attracts many beneficial insects
- Can be used for cutting and drying
- Requires sun and well-drained soil for optimal growth
- Can spread vigorously, requiring control in smaller beds
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust and drought-tolerant perennial
- Suitable as ground cover and for naturalising
- Long flowering period in mid-summer
- Attracts many beneficial insects
- Can be used for cutting and drying
Cons
- Requires sun and well-drained soil for optimal growth
- Can spread vigorously, requiring control in smaller beds
Pros
- Robust and drought-tolerant perennial
- Suitable as ground cover and for naturalising
- Long flowering period in mid-summer
- Attracts many beneficial insects
- Can be used for cutting and drying
Cons
- Requires sun and well-drained soil for optimal growth
- Can spread vigorously, requiring control in smaller beds
Specifications
- Botanical name: Achillea millefolium
- Plant height: approx. 60 cm
- Plant density: 6 plants per m²
- Flowering period: July–September
- Flower colour: White, sometimes light pink towards the end of flowering
- Growing conditions: Light growing site, well-drained soil
- Characteristics: Drought-tolerant, fragrant foliage, suitable for cutting and drying
- Category: Ground-covering perennials
- Main category: Ground cover
Other products

Snow rush (Luzula nivea) is a perennial that forms dense tufts of narrow, green leaves and develops fine, white flower spikes in June. The spikes stand high above the foliage and later turn dark brown, giving the plant a varied appearance throughout the season.
The plant thrives best in partial shade to shade and is therefore suitable for areas where many other plants struggle to grow. It grows to about 30 cm high in the tuft, while the flower spikes can reach up to 60 cm.
Snow rush is evergreen and thus retains its foliage all year round. It is tolerated by grass allergy sufferers, as it does not belong to the grass family, and the dried spikes can be used decoratively. For dense ground cover, a planting density of about six plants per square metre is recommended.
- Evergreen: Retains its foliage all year round and provides structure in the garden during winter.
- Shade tolerant: Thrives in partial shade and shade, where many other plants do not succeed.
- Decorative flowers: White spikes in June that later turn dark brown.
- Allergy friendly: Tolerated by grass allergy sufferers, as it is not a grass species.
- Suitable as ground cover: Forms dense tufts that cover the soil effectively.
Pros and cons
- Robust and easy to establish in shady areas
- Evergreen and decorative all year round
- Requires minimal maintenance
- Can be used as an allergy-friendly alternative to grass
- Prefers moist soil and may perform poorly in very dry areas
- The flowering period is short and mainly in June
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust and easy to establish in shady areas
- Evergreen and decorative all year round
- Requires minimal maintenance
- Can be used as an allergy-friendly alternative to grass
Cons
- Prefers moist soil and may perform poorly in very dry areas
- The flowering period is short and mainly in June
Pros
- Robust and easy to establish in shady areas
- Evergreen and decorative all year round
- Requires minimal maintenance
- Can be used as an allergy-friendly alternative to grass
Cons
- Prefers moist soil and may perform poorly in very dry areas
- The flowering period is short and mainly in June
Specifications
- Botanical name: Luzula nivea
- Danish name: Snow rush
- Plant height: Tuft approx. 30 cm, flower spikes up to 60 cm
- Growing conditions: Partial shade to shade
- Planting density: 6 plants per square metre
- Flowering time: June
- Flower colour: White (later turns dark brown)
- Characteristics: Evergreen, tolerated by grass allergy sufferers, spikes can be dried
- Category: Ground-covering perennials
- Main category: Ground cover

Vinca major, known as Large-leaved Periwinkle, is a perennial, evergreen plant that forms a dense and green ground cover throughout the year. It has vigorous growth and broad, glossy leaves that quickly fill gaps in the planting and provide a uniform appearance in the bed.
The plant blooms in April and May with large, blue-purple flowers, and a smaller re-bloom may occur later in the summer. It is well suited as ground cover under shrubs and trees, where it can effectively cover the soil and suppress weeds.
Large-leaved Periwinkle thrives in both sun and shade and makes few demands on the soil, as long as there is no standing water in the root zone. It tolerates pruning all year round and maintains its dense growth, making it suitable for both new and established beds.
For optimal coverage, it is recommended to plant 6–9 plants per square metre. It is fully hardy and does well in the Danish climate, even in more shaded or dry growing sites.
- Evergreen: Retains its green foliage all year round.
- Flowering: Large blue-purple flowers in April–May, often with re-blooming.
- Growth form: Vigorous and ground-covering with rooting branches.
- Light conditions: Thrives in both sun and shade.
- Care: Tolerates pruning all year round and requires minimal maintenance.
Pros and cons
- Fast and dense growth that effectively covers the soil
- Evergreen and decorative all year round
- Tolerates both sun and shade
- Requires little care after establishment
- Suitable for shade beds and underplanting
- Can spread vigorously and requires control in smaller gardens
- Young plants need regular watering to establish
- Does not thrive in soil with standing water
Pros and cons
Pros
- Fast and dense growth that effectively covers the soil
- Evergreen and decorative all year round
- Tolerates both sun and shade
- Requires little care after establishment
- Suitable for shade beds and underplanting
Cons
- Can spread vigorously and requires control in smaller gardens
- Young plants need regular watering to establish
- Does not thrive in soil with standing water
Pros
- Fast and dense growth that effectively covers the soil
- Evergreen and decorative all year round
- Tolerates both sun and shade
- Requires little care after establishment
- Suitable for shade beds and underplanting
Cons
- Can spread vigorously and requires control in smaller gardens
- Young plants need regular watering to establish
- Does not thrive in soil with standing water
Specifications
- Botanical name: Vinca major
- Danish name: Large-leaved Periwinkle
- Plant height: approx. 30–45 cm
- Flower colour: Blue-purple
- Flowering period: April–May (possible re-blooming in summer)
- Leaf colour: Fresh green to dark green, glossy
- Light conditions: Sun to shade
- Growth form: Ground-covering, rooting branches
- Hardiness: Fully hardy
- Recommended planting density: 6–9 plants per m²
- Category: Ground cover plant, Periwinkle
- Pot variants: 0.8 L, 1 L, 1.5 L
Different types of ground cover plants
Ground cover plants come in many varieties, each with its own strengths and uses. Here are some of the most common types.
1. Evergreen ground cover plants
Evergreen species such as ivy (Hedera helix) and periwinkle (Vinca minor) keep the garden green all year round. They are robust and require minimal care, making them ideal for slopes and under trees.
2. Flowering ground cover plants
Flowering varieties such as cranesbill (Geranium), thyme, and lavender add colour and fragrance to the garden. They attract bees and butterflies and are perfect for sunny areas where they can spread naturally.
3. Shade-tolerant ground cover plants
For shady areas under trees or along buildings, species such as hosta, ferns, and wild strawberry are good choices. They thrive in moist soil and create a lush look even where the sun rarely reaches.
4. Ground cover for slopes and erosion
Plants such as cotoneaster and creeping juniper are particularly suitable for slopes, where they help stabilise the soil and prevent erosion. They are hardy and do well in both sun and partial shade.
Different brands of ground cover plants
Several producers and nurseries offer quality plants suitable as ground cover. Here are some examples of well-known brands and suppliers.
Plantetorvet
Plantetorvet.dk offers a wide range of ground cover plants, both flowering and evergreen. They focus on quality and supply plants adapted to Danish climate conditions.
Jespers Planteskole
Jespers Planteskole has a large selection of ground cover plants for both sun and shade. They emphasise healthy plants and offer advice on selection and care.
Lundhede Planteskole
Lundhede is known for supplying robust ground cover plants in larger quantities to both private and professional customers. The range spans from classic ivy to more decorative species such as creeping thyme.
Plantorama
Plantorama combines plant sales with inspiration for garden design. Their selection of ground cover plants appeals to both beginners and experienced gardeners who want easy and decorative solutions.
Bilka Garden Centre
Bilka offers an affordable range of ground cover plants that are easy to establish and suitable for typical Danish gardens. The range includes both flowering and green varieties.
Frequently asked questions
Why use ground cover plants?
Ground cover plants protect the soil from drying out, reduce weeds, and create a cohesive look in the garden. They can also improve soil structure and attract beneficial insects.
How close should ground cover plants be planted?
The spacing depends on the plant’s growth form. Generally, they are planted 20–40 cm apart so they can quickly form a dense cover without competing too much for space.
When is the best time to plant ground cover plants?
Spring and autumn are ideal times, as the soil is moist and the temperature moderate. This gives the plants the best conditions to establish themselves.
Can ground cover plants replace a lawn?
Yes, in many cases ground cover plants can be a low-maintenance alternative to grass, especially in areas with shade or uneven soil where grass struggles to thrive.
How do you maintain ground cover plants?
Once the plants are established, they require minimal care. Remove weeds at first, water during dry periods, and trim the plants back if necessary to keep them compact and healthy.










