These native groundcovers stay short and provide attractive foliage throughout the growing season. They are great alternatives to conventional non-native groundcovers, many of which are invasive and choke out wildflowers in our forests. (Pachysandra, wintercreeper, and periwinkle are a few known culprits.)

Some of these plants actively spread on their own, naturally forming a dense mat, while others must be planted en masse for a groundcover effect. Use the filters below and read the descriptions to select the right plant for your garden's growing conditions.