large leaf ground cover plants

Why Choose Large Leaf Ground Cover Plants?

Big, beautiful leaves are more than just eye-catching. Large leaf ground cover plants offer exceptional coverage, quickly blanketing open areas with striking foliage that blocks sunlight from reaching weed seeds. Their dense habit reduces soil erosion on slopes and can create a cooling, moisture-retentive microclimate around your other plants. You’ll particularly appreciate their ability to shine in challenging, shady spots where turf and smaller plants struggle.

Top Large Leaf Ground Cover Plants for New Zealand Gardens

Bergenias: Year-Round Colour and Texture

Few groundcovers are as reliable as Bergenias, known for their thick, glossy leaves and tough-as-nails performance. For vibrant pink blooms and impressive foliage, Bergenia Rotblum (Heart Leaf Bergenia) is a standout. Its large, heart-shaped leaves remain attractive year-round, turning rich shades of red in cooler months. Another favourite, Bergenia cordifolia (Pig Squeak Plant), is renowned for its bold leaf clumps and unique texture. Both make exceptional ground covers beneath trees or along shaded paths.

Ajuga: Lush Carpets with Majestic Leaves

Ajugas are prized for speedy spreading, resilience, and their showy, oversized foliage in garden beds. Ajuga 'Jungle Beauty' displays deep green to purplish-bronze leaves and sends up rich blue flower spikes in spring, creating a striking contrast. For the largest option, Ajuga 'Catlins Giant' reigns supreme, with leaves notably larger than most varieties and the ability to form dense mats even in part shade.

Tropical Flair with Rhaphidophora decursiva

For a bold, statement-making ground cover in spacious indoor or sheltered outdoor areas, Rhaphidophora decursiva brings a tropical touch. Its dramatic, deeply-lobed leaves are perfect for creating a lush, modern carpet effect. While ideal as a striking indoor specimen, in frost-free regions, it can also thrive outdoors as an unusual ground cover for shaded, protected spaces.

Tips for Succeeding with Large Leaf Ground Cover Plants

When planting large leaf ground cover plants, prepare the soil well by adding organic matter, especially if planting under established trees. Water deeply after planting and mulch to retain moisture. While these plants are generally low maintenance, keep an eye on spreading varieties to ensure they don’t overrun neighbouring beds. Divide and replant every few years to rejuvenate growth and maximise coverage.

Transform Your Garden with Drama and Texture

Embrace the architectural beauty and practical benefits of large leaf ground cover plants. Choose from robust options like Bergenia Rotblum (Heart Leaf Bergenia), the ever-reliable Bergenia cordifolia (Pig Squeak Plant), versatile Ajuga 'Jungle Beauty' and Ajuga 'Catlins Giant', or the statement-making Rhaphidophora decursiva. With the right selection, your garden will enjoy year-round interest, easy care, and a beautiful, weed-suppressing carpet of lush leaves.