Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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best ground cover plants

Looking to transform tired lawns, tricky slopes, or bare patches in your garden? Choosing the best ground cover plants can turn problem areas into lush, vibrant spaces with minimal maintenance. Whether you need a carpet of green to suppress weeds, conserve soil moisture, or create striking visual interest, the right ground cover can deliver all that—and more. In New Zealand’s varied climate, there’s a broad selection of ground covers to suit every garden’s conditions and style, from native gems to tough, flowering species.

Coprosma kirkii

Coprosma kirkii, commonly known as Creeping Coprosma, is a hardy NZ native groundcover shrub valued for its dense, trailing habit and small glossy green leaves. This evergreen plant spreads across the ground, suppressing weeds and providing year round greenery.

Buy Coprosma kirkii

From $17.95

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Groundcover Plants

Height: 25 cm

Spread: 2.50 m

Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Shade, Wind

Garden uses: Borders, Ground covering, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Patios, Ponds, Pool areas

Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Modern, Native, Riparian

Leptinella dioica

Leptinella dioica (Bachelor Button Plant) is a low growing evergreen groundcover valued for its fine fern like foliage and ability to create a dense carpet of greenery. The attractive foliage provides year round texture and softens pathways, rock gardens, and garden edges.

Buy Leptinella dioica

From $13.95

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Groundcover Plants

Height: 8 cm

Spread: 70 cm

Flowering time: Spring, Summer

Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy

Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Ground covering, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Ponds

Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Modern, Native, Tropical

What Makes a Ground Cover Plant ‘Best’?

The best ground cover plants share several qualities: they spread quickly, withstand local weather, help prevent erosion, suppress weeds, and often add beauty and texture. For shaded corners, sun-soaked borders, or even coastal gardens, the options are abundant. Some ground covers stay low and tight, ideal for foot traffic, while others offer fragrant blooms or colourful foliage that brightens dull spots.

Top Picks for New Zealand Gardens

Grevillea Bronze Rambler (Groundcover Grevillea)

If you’re after a tough, drought-tolerant choice, Grevillea Bronze Rambler (Groundcover Grevillea) is a standout. This Australian native adapts well to Kiwi gardens and rapidly spreads with bronze-tinted foliage and red flowers that attract birds.

Grevillea Gaudichaudii (Grevillea x gaudichaudii)

Another fast-growing, low-maintenance option is Grevillea Gaudichaudii (Grevillea x gaudichaudii). It’s popular for suppressing weeds and covering banks and sunny slopes with rich, evergreen foliage and vivid flowers.

Ajuga reptans variegata

For shaded beds or woodland walks, Ajuga reptans variegata makes an excellent choice. This hardy perennial forms a beautiful carpet of patterned leaves interspersed with blue flower spikes, thriving where other plants struggle.

Scleranthus biflorous

Native to New Zealand, Scleranthus biflorous creates soft, moss-like mounds that are perfect for rock gardens, paths, and borders. Its compact form provides both texture and resilience, especially in well-draining soils.

Coprosma kirkii 'variegata'

For coastal or exposed gardens, consider the attractive Coprosma kirkii 'variegata', a native ground cover with striking variegated foliage. It’s tolerant of salt spray, wind, and dry conditions, making it ideal for tough sites.

Tips for Selecting and Using Ground Cover Plants

When choosing the best ground cover plants for your landscape, assess sunlight, soil type, and moisture levels. For shady areas, Ajuga or native mosses are a solid pick. Sunnier, dry spots benefit from resilient Grevilleas or Coprosmas. Remember to mulch for the first year to help young ground covers establish quickly; once settled, they require minimal upkeep and can dramatically reduce the need for weeding.

Ground cover plants aren’t just practical—they add year-round interest and biodiversity to your garden. Explore our diverse range to find the best fit for your site, and watch your garden flourish with colour and character while easing your workload.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.