Ground covers are low-growing plants that form a dense, continuous layer over the soil, serving as a living mulch to prevent erosion and suppress weeds. Gardening in areas of low light, often called full shade, presents a unique challenge because most plants require significant light energy for photosynthesis. Selecting specific perennial species adapted to capture limited light allows gardeners to successfully carpet even the darkest corners of a property.
Understanding the Full Shade Environment
Full shade is defined as an area receiving less than three hours of direct sunlight daily, often limited to early morning or filtered light throughout the day. It is important to differentiate this from deep shade, such as locations under dense evergreen canopies, which receive virtually no direct or ambient light penetration. Plants adapted to these conditions rely on broad, thin leaves to maximize the capture of low-intensity light.
Beyond light, moisture and air circulation are the most important factors in a shaded garden. Shade areas are categorized as either dry shade or moist shade. Dry shade is the most common and difficult scenario, typically occurring beneath established trees whose extensive root systems absorb most available water and nutrients.
Moist shade characterizes low-lying spots or areas where water collects and the soil remains persistently damp. While cooler temperatures reduce soil moisture evaporation, the lack of air circulation in dense plantings can increase the risk of fungal diseases. Diagnosing the specific moisture level of a shaded area is necessary for selecting a ground cover that will thrive.
Low-Growing Perennial Recommendations
For creating a uniform, low-maintenance carpet, several specific perennials offer exceptional performance in full shade. Pachysandra terminalis, or Japanese Spurge, is a widely used evergreen choice that grows 8 to 12 inches tall. It spreads slowly via underground rhizomes, forming a dense mat of glossy, dark green foliage. Pachysandra prefers rich, well-drained soil with medium moisture but tolerates periodically dry shade once established, making it suitable for planting beneath large trees.
Vinca minor (Periwinkle) is a popular evergreen vine that grows about six inches tall and is effective for stabilizing slopes. It is highly adaptable and tolerates dry, shaded conditions, but it cannot tolerate sites where the soil remains consistently wet. Epimedium (Barrenwort) reaches 8 to 12 inches in height and forms a dense, semi-evergreen foliage mass. This perennial is valued for its tolerance of dry shade and produces delicate, columbine-like flowers in spring.
For areas where quicker coverage is desired, Ajuga reptans (Bugleweed) is a rapidly spreading ground cover that uses runners to colonize large areas. It maintains a low profile, generally between 6 and 12 inches. Ajuga is prized for colorful foliage cultivars, such as ‘Black Scallop,’ which offer dark purple or nearly black leaves. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and tolerates full shade, although its most vibrant colors usually develop when it receives a few hours of morning sun.
Taller and Spreading Options for Deep Shade
In areas of truly deep shade, or where textural contrast is desired, slightly taller ground covers are effective. Smaller varieties of Hosta are excellent choices, known for their large, architectural leaves that maximize light absorption. Although Hosta are typically clump-forming, their expansive foliage quickly covers the ground and suppresses weeds, performing best in moist, well-drained soil.
Asarum europaeum, or European Ginger, forms a dense, evergreen carpet of glossy, kidney-shaped leaves, standing about six inches tall. This plant is highly effective in deep shade and offers a uniform texture, though its growth rate is relatively slow. The thick foliage overlaps to create an attractive, dark green tapestry.
For a grass-like appearance, Liriope muscari (Monkey Grass) is a robust, clumping perennial that grows to about 12 inches. It tolerates dry shade well once established. Its dense, narrow foliage and late-season flower spikes provide a strong vertical texture, contrasting with the broad leaves of other shade plants. Certain ferns, such as the Autumn Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora), also thrive in dry, deep shade conditions.
Installation and Long-Term Care
Successful establishment begins with meticulous soil preparation, especially under established trees where soil is often depleted and dry. Loosen the existing soil and incorporate several inches of well-rotted compost or organic matter to improve both water retention and nutrient levels. In areas with dense, shallow tree roots, it is practical to cut the surface feeder roots and then add a 3 to 4-inch layer of enriched topsoil, planting directly into this new medium.
Proper planting density is necessary for rapid coverage and effective weed suppression. For quickly spreading plants like Vinca and Pachysandra, spacing them 6 to 12 inches apart is recommended; closer spacing achieves a solid carpet faster. After planting, provide a thorough, deep initial watering, followed by consistent watering during the first growing season until the plants are fully established.
Long-term maintenance involves managing pests and fungal diseases, which thrive in shaded environments. Ground covers are particularly susceptible to fungal issues, such as leaf blight on Pachysandra, promoted by poor air circulation and consistently wet foliage. Improve airflow and reduce humidity by avoiding overhead irrigation and periodically thinning dense patches. Slugs are also common pests in cool, moist shade gardens, often damaging plants like Hosta.