Fast-Growing Groundcovers for Shade

Having trouble growing grass in those shady corners of your landscape? Add some fast-growing groundcovers for shade like bunchberry, false goat’s beard. mondo grass, wild ginger, or yellow archangel. These versatile plants not only thrive in low light, but they also spread quickly, making your yard green and beautiful.

These plants are sure to breathe new life into an otherwise dark space.

What is a groundcover?

Groundcover refers to low-growing plants that spread across the ground, forming a dense carpet-like layer. They typically have a creeping or spreading growth habit and are used to cover large areas of soil as grass alternatives. Groundcovers offer several benefits to your landscape, such as:

• Weed suppression: Groundcovers can help suppress weed growth by shading the soil and outcompeting weeds for nutrients and space.
• Erosion control: Groundcovers’ dense root systems help stabilize soil, curbing erosion caused by wind and water.
• Moisture retention: Groundcovers can help retain soil moisture by reducing evaporation and runoff.
• Aesthetic enhancement: Groundcovers add visual interest to landscapes with their foliage, flowers, and texture. They can be used to create attractive borders, fill in gaps between plants, or cover bare ground.
• Biodiversity: Groundcovers double as habitat and food source for wildlife like insects, small mammals, and birds. They also support pollinator activity, contributing to biodiversity.

11 shade-loving groundcovers that grow quickly

For shaded areas, several groundcovers thrive in low-light conditions, grow fast, and can add charm to your landscape. They have high shade tolerance, low maintenance requirements, and low-growing habits in common, making them versatile choices for yards with limited sunlight.

1. Bishop’s hat (Epimedium)

Native to Asia, Europe, and North America, Bishop’s hat is a perennial herbaceous plant adored by homeowners for its bronze, reddish, or green heart-shaped leaves and delicate, intricate flowers. The blooms can range widely in color, from white, yellow, and pink to orange and purple.

Bishop’s hat can be the go-to solution to enhance the visual appeal of your shaded yard or garden, bringing a graceful touch to the area.

Bloom time: Spring
USDA hardiness zones: 4 to 9
Soil preference: Well-drained, fertile soil
Sun preference: Partial to full shade; it only tolerates minimal sunlight
Care: Regular watering during dry spells to keep the soil moist (not soggy), mulching around the base of the plant, and pruning in late winter or early spring to foster new growth
Spreads via: Rhizomes (or underground stems), forming beautiful foliage clumps
Best planted: In rock gardens or along borders and pathways
Cost: $5 to $20 per plant, but rare cultivars may be more expensive

2. Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans)

Another attractive groundcover option for your yard is bugleweed, a low-growing perennial with glossy, round leaves that form dense mats close to the ground. Depending on the cultivar, the leaves can range in color from dark green to purple, bronze, or a mix of all three.

In spring, bugleweed produces small, tubular flowers that rise above the foliage and sport blue, pink, purple, or white colors for some undeniable charm. The blooms lure pollinators like bees and butterflies to the plant, thu s contributing to biodiversity in shaded environments.

This plant is well-adapted to shady conditions and will typically fill in bare spots under trees, along woodlands, and in areas where other plants may struggle.

Bloom time: Mid to late spring
USDA hardiness zones: 3 to 9
Soil preference: Moist, well-drained, fertile, slightly acidic to neutral soil
Sun preference: Partial to full shade
Care: Regular watering, mulching around the base of the plant, and flower trims to encourage blooming
Spreads via: Stolons (creeping above-surface stems) but can also self-seed under favorable conditions
Best planted: Under trees, in shady spots and rock gardens, and along retaining walls and pathways. Avoid planting near lawns where it can take over the area.
Cost: $5 to $15 per plant

3. Bunchberry (Cornus canadensis)

Bunchberry is a woodland plant native to North America. It’s an excellent choice for shaded areas due to its tolerance to shade and ability to fill in bare spots in the yard. Another plus is that it can suppress weeds due to its dense growth pattern. 

This particular plant typically grows to a height of 6 to 8 inches and forms whorls of four to six oval-shaped leaves arranged around a stem. In spring, the leaf whorls support the growth of small, white, four-petal flowers that eventually give way to bright red berries in summer and early fall. 

Bunchberry likes cool summer climates and wouldn’t grow in the hot southern part of the country. Provide it with plenty of shade and cool air, and you can have a pretty groundcover.

Bloom time: Spring; berries appear in summer
USDA hardiness zones: 2 to 7
Soil preference: Moist, well-drained, acidic soil rich in organic matter
Sun preference: Partial to full shade, but can tolerate some morning sunlight
Care: Little maintenance is needed, apart from pruning and regular watering
Spreads via: Rhizomes and seed dispersal. The berries are eaten by animals and dispersed through droppings.
Best planted: In shade or woodland gardens, along shaded borders, or under trees
Cost: $15 to $20

4. False goat’s beard (Astilbe biternata)

A show-off plant through and through, false goat’s beard is known for its plume-like flowers and fern-like leaves. The foliage features colors from green to bronze and red, while the flowers come in shades of lavender, pink, white, and red. The blooms rest on tall, feathery, elegant spikes that grow above the foliage.

False goat’s beard can grow anywhere from 1 to 6 feet tall. The shorter types (around 2 feet tall) form lush, carpet-like foliage that can add plenty of texture and visual interest to shaded, hidden garden beds or borders. The flowers are another pollinator favorite, attracting anything from bees and butterflies to other beneficial insects to the garden.

Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
USDA hardiness zones: 5 to 8
Soil preference: Well-drained, moist soil right in organic matter
Sun preference: Partial shade to minimal sunlight
Care: Water regularly to maintain moisture, but don’t overdo it; otherwise, low-maintenance, aside from some pruning you may want to do to maintain a tidy appearance
Spreads via: Rhizomes
Best planted: In shade or woodland gardens, in perennial beds, or as cut flowers
Cost: $5 to $12

5. Green and gold (Chrysogonum virginianum)

Green and gold is an attractive perennial ground cover that brings a touch of woodland charm to shaded gardens. It has heart-shaped leaves and bright yellow flowers—talk about a pop of color in the yard. Whether you grow it under a tree or along a path in your backyard, the lush, short (1-2 inches) mat it forms adds texture and suppresses weeds. 

But green and gold isn’t just another pretty face in the garden. It attracts pollinators and repels deer, a major perk if you live in an area where deer are nibbling on your vegetables. It’s also valued for its medicinal properties, with Native American tribes having relied on it for centuries to address various health concerns.

Bloom time: Spring to early summer (April to June)
USDA hardiness zones: 5 to 9
Soil preference: Moist, well-drained, fertile soil; highly adaptable to loamy, sandy, and clay soils
Sun preference: Partial shade
Care: Minimal maintenance is required, apart from watering as needed
Spreads via: Rhizomes or self-seeding
Best planted: In shaded, woodland, native plant, or rock gardens or along borders
Cost: $10 to $11

5. Japanese pachysandra (Pachysandra terminalis)

Native to Japan and China, Japanese pachysandra is known for its impressive glossy foliage. 

As a groundcover, it normally reaches 6 to 12 inches high and produces dark green, oval-shaped, smooth leaves that give it a polished appearance. Its blooms are discreet, characterized by soft tones of white and pale green. Instead of petals, they form filament cluster arrangements at the tips of the stems. Though not showy, these flowers add a delicate beauty to the plant.

Its foliage serves as a refuge for birds and small animals, while its nectar can transform your backyard into a buzzing hub of beneficial pollinators. A true gem in the world of ground covers, Japanese pachysandra effectively repels deer and rabbits and forms a dense, resilient carpet your neighbors will surely envy.

Bloom time: Spring (Late March to early May)
USDA hardiness zones: 4 to 9
Soil preference: Well-drained, rich, moist soil
Sun preference: Partial to full shade
Care: Regular watering during drought periods; otherwise, low-maintenance and hardy
Spreads via: Rhizomes
Best planted: Under trees, along shaded borders and edges of buildings, or in woodland gardens
Cost: $5 to $20

6. Mondo grass (Ophiopogon japonicus)

With its slender, arching leaves and unique flowering habit, mondo grass is a captivating addition to any landscape. Its foliage forms dense, tufted clumps of dark green blades that sway gracefully and bring a soothing vibe to any yard. Most mondo grass varieties grow up to 12 inches tall and 15 inches wide.

But what truly sets mondo grass apart is its flowers, which emerge in late spring to early summer as small, white or pale lavender spikes nestled among the foliage. While individually discreet, these delicate blooms collectively add a subtle elegance to garden borders and shaded areas. 

Interestingly, mondo grass isn’t a true grass but rather a member of the Asparagus family, closely related to lilies. Whether used as a groundcover, border edging, or accent plant, mondo grass brings both visual interest and a sense of tranquility to outdoor spaces. Plus, it’s salt-tolerant, deer-resistant, and disease-free.

Bloom time: Summer to early fall (August to September)
USDA hardiness zones: 6 to 10
Soil preference: Well-drained, medium-moisture soil
Sun preference: Full sun to partial shade
Care: Very low-maintenance, requires yearly mowing and some watering
Spreads via: Runners, and does so at slow to moderate speed
Best planted: Under trees, in shaded or rock gardens, or along buildings, borders, and pathways
Cost: $10 to $40

7. Sweet woodruff (Galium odoratum)

With its delicate foliage and subtle charm, sweet woodruff is a welcome addition to any shaded garden. It sports lance-shaped leaves that grow in whorls around slender stems, forming eye-catching green carpets under trees. Its white, dainty flowers truly set this groundcover apart. They emit a sweet, hay-like scent that attracts bees and butterflies (and why not, humans?) and create clusters of star-shaped blossoms that can make your yard look magnificent.

Beyond its visual appeal, sweet woodruff is easy to grow and deer- and rabbit-resistant. It has an extended history of medicinal and culinary uses, often used to treat insomnia and digestive disorders and jazz up drinks such as wines and liquors. 

Bloom time: Spring (April to May)
USDA hardiness zones: 4 to 8
Soil preference: Moist, well-drained, fertile soil with a slight acidity
Sun preference: Partial to full shade
Care: Only water during drought periods to prevent aggressive spreading; no fertilizer required once established
Spreads via: Rhizomes and self-seeding
Best planted: In naturalized areas or herb gardens, near black walnuts, along shady borders, as an edging plant, or under trees
Cost: $20 per plant or $7 for around 200 seeds

8. Vancouveria (Vancouveria hexandra)

Vancouveria is a low-growing perennial plant that can grow between 12 and 18 inches tall, commonly referred to as an “inside-out plant” due to the quirky appearance of its flowers. The blossoms look like upside-down umbrellas, with delicate white petals arranged in a circular way and yellow stamens peeking out from underneath, giving the impression that the flower is turned inside out.

Vancouveria produces leaves with lobed edges and a vibrant green hue. Because they drape from slender stems, they create a visually attractive canopy. The plant’s dense growth habit provides an effective ground cover for shaded areas and helps reduce soil erosion. Beyond the garden, many people use Vancouveria’s leaves in craft projects and flower arrangements, showcasing its versatility.

Bloom time: Late spring to early summer (May to June)
USDA hardiness zones: 5 to 9
Soil preference: Moist, well-drained, nutrient-rich soil
Sun preference: Partial to full shade
Care: Water twice a week to maintain consistently moist soil conditions, but don’t overwater, as this can cause root rot and mildew and attract pests.
Spreads via: Rhizomes
Best planted: In shaded, woodland, or rock gardens, along borders, or under trees
Cost: Approximately $13 per potted plant

9. Wild ginger (Asarum)

Despite the name, wild ginger has no relation to the culinary ginger many of us are familiar with. A low-growing perennial found growing throughout southeastern Canada and the eastern parts of the United States, wild winger is an understated plant that nevertheless produces attractive, unique foliage.

Its heart-shaped, glossy, and rich green leaves, hidden beneath the foliage, are adorned with inconspicuous flowers that boast an intricate maroon color and subtle fragrance. Ants and other ground-dwelling insects find the blooms’ nectar particularly yummy.

Throughout history, indigenous peoples have used wild ginger in traditional medicine, often treating respiratory and digestive problems. When crushed, the leaves emit a spicy aroma, making them suitable for many culinary dishes and natural pest control.

Bloom time: Spring (March to April)
USDA hardiness zones: 3 to 8
Soil preference: Moist, well-drained, rich soil
Sun preference: Partial to full shade
Care: Water regularly; otherwise, very low-maintenance
Spreads via: Rhizomes

Best planted: In shaded, woodland, or native plant gardens, along shaded borders, or under trees
Cost: $5 per plant

10. Yellow archangel (Lamium galeobdolon)

Named for its yellow flowers resembling angel wings, yellow archangel is a groundcover you may want to consider in your shade-heavy yard. Its cheerful blossoms not only attract bees and butterflies but also add a remarkable pop of color to shaded areas. The flowers stand out against the heart-shaped, glossy, bright green leaves.

Fun fact about yellow archangel: The leaves sport a silver lining along the edges, giving them a subtle shimmering effect in the dappled sunlight of a shaded yard. Its nicknames, “golden dead nettle” and “aluminum plant,” add to its allure in the garden.

Bloom time: Spring to early summer (April to June)
USDA hardiness zones: 4 to 9
Soil preference: Moist, well-drained, nutrient-rich soil
Sun preference: Partial to full shade
Care: Regular watering is essential; the plant can handle neither excessive water nor prolonged periods of drought, preferring soil moisture levels that mimic those of the natural forest floor
Spreads via: Rhizomes
Best planted: Under trees, in shaded gardens, along woodland settings or pathways, or as a border plant
Cost: $5 to $20 per plant

How to choose the best fast-growing groundcover for the yard

To successfully grow a groundcover and make sure it integrates into your landscape, it’s important to consider several aspects. Follow these steps to help you make the right choice:

• Assess the shade level in your yard. Is it partial, dappled, or full? Some groundcovers tolerate full shade, while others need some sunlight.
• Consider your soil’s health. Have you tested it? Do you know its pH and nutrient levels? What is its texture? Groundcovers tolerate different soil types, so you should be familiar with this factor before starting.
• Determine the moisture levels in your garden’s shady area. Is it consistently moist, or does it dry out between waterings?
• Think about its maintenance requirements. Do you prefer a low-maintenance groundcover, or are you willing to invest more time, money, and effort into care?
• Know if a plant is invasive or not. Some tend to spread aggressively and outcompete other plants, while others are non-invasive and pose no risks. Consider foliage color, texture, and flowering habits when choosing a groundcover.
• Talk to a professional. When in doubt about what’s best for your yard, speak to a professional. Reach out to extension offices in your area, nurseries, or gardening experts for advice.

FAQ about fast-growing groundcovers for shade

Which three groundcovers grow the fastest?

If you’re looking for the best groundcover to cover the most area quickly, Japanese pachysandra, yellow archangel, and sweet woodruff are your best bets.

Can groundcovers be used as lawn alternatives?

As mentioned, groundcovers for shade are best used to spruce up shady areas of the yard where other plants may struggle. Due to their low tolerance for foot traffic and preference for shade, they may not be your best choice for an overall lawn alternative. 

If pets and kids frequently play in the yard, you’ll want to select a groundcover that can tolerate heavy foot traffic. Some good options include:

• Sedum
• Blue star creeper
• Creeping Jenny
• Ajuga
• Portulaca
• Scotch moss

Which groundcovers for shade compete with other plants the most?

Of the groundcovers mentioned in our article, yellow archangel and bugleweed have the most vigorous spreading habits. While they can quickly fill in bare patches, they also can outcompete other plants if not kept in check.

Get the help you deserve in the yard

There’s no denying that groundcovers can transform a shady spot in the yard. These plants provide excellent coverage while suppressing weeds and stabilizing the soil.

We get it, though. You may not have the time or inclination to plant and care for groundcovers. Perhaps the process just seems too daunting. A local pro can help you evaluate your yard and bring your vision to life – all without any effort on your part.

Main Image Credit: David J. Stang | Wikimedia Commons | CC BY-SA 4.0