Best Ground Cover Plants for Shade in Australia
Best Ground Cover Plants for Shade in Australia
Shady areas in the garden can be tricky to plant, but the right ground cover plants can completely transform them. Whether you're filling space under trees, softening pathways, or creating a lush green carpet, shade-tolerant ground covers are a low-maintenance solution that looks incredible year-round.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best ground cover plants for shade in Australia, including fast-growing, hardy, and easy-care options available online.
Image: Brent Wilson via House and Garden
Why Use Ground Cover Plants in Shade?
Ground cover plants are one of the easiest ways to transform tricky areas of your garden. In shaded spaces where grass struggles, they provide a natural, low-maintenance alternative.
They help:
- Reduce weeds by covering bare soil
- Retain moisture in the ground
- Create a soft, layered garden look
- Fill gaps quickly with spreading growth
What Makes a Good Shade Ground Cover?
Not all plants thrive in low light, so choosing the right type is key.
Shade Tolerance
The best ground cover plants for shade can grow in low light or filtered sun, making them perfect for areas under trees or along shaded fences.
Growth Habit & Spread
Look for plants that naturally spread or trail, forming a dense mat over time. This helps cover space faster and reduces the need for replanting.
Low Maintenance Needs
Great ground covers don’t require constant care. Once established, they should need only occasional watering and minimal pruning.
Best Ground Cover Plants for Shade in Australia
Native Violet (Viola hederacea) – Shade Loving Ground Cover
Native Violet is one of the most popular ground cover plants in Australia, and for good reason. This fast-spreading native forms a dense green carpet, dotted with delicate purple and white flowers throughout the warmer months.
Why it works
- Thrives in shade and part shade
- Fast-growing and spreading
- Soft, lush foliage with seasonal flowers
Best uses
- Between stepping stones or pavers
- Under trees and in shaded garden beds
- Softening pathways and edges
Pratia pedunculata – Blue Star Creeper Ground Cover
Pratia pedunculata, also known as Blue Star Creeper, is a delicate yet hardy ground cover that forms a dense, low-growing mat of green foliage with small star-shaped blue flowers. It thrives in part shade and adds a soft, cottage-style feel to the garden.
Why it works
- Low-growing and fast spreading
- Tolerates light foot traffic
- Beautiful seasonal white flowers
Best uses
- Between pavers and stepping stones
- Rockeries and borders
- Shaded lawns or filler areas
Ajuga reptans ‘Purpurea’ – Matt Forming Ground Cover
Ajuga reptans ‘Purpurea’ is a striking ground cover known for its deep purple foliage and dense, mat-forming growth. It performs well in shade and creates strong contrast in garden beds, especially when paired with green foliage plants.
Why it works
- Dense, weed-suppressing growth
- Thrives in shade and part shade
- Rich purple foliage adds colour year-round
Best uses
- Shaded garden beds and borders
- Under trees for contrast planting
- Mass planting for a bold ground cover effect
Where to Use Ground Cover Plants in Shade
Ground cover plants are incredibly versatile and can be used throughout the garden to create a cohesive, layered look.
Under Trees
Perfect for filling the difficult space where grass won’t grow due to low light and root competition.
Between Pavers
Low-growing plants like Native Violet and Pratia pedunculata soften hard surfaces and create a natural, relaxed feel.
Image:
Tracey Ayton via House & Home
Garden Beds & Borders
Use ground covers to fill gaps, reduce weeds, and create a dense, finished look in shaded areas.
Pots & Hanging Baskets
Trailing ground covers can also work beautifully in containers, adding texture and movement.
How to Care for Shade Ground Cover Plants
Most shade-loving ground covers are low maintenance, but a little care will help them establish and thrive.
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist while plants are establishing. Once settled, many varieties require only occasional watering.
Soil & Drainage
Well-draining soil is important. Adding organic matter can help improve structure and retain moisture.
Pruning & Maintenance
Trim back growth occasionally to control spread and keep plants looking tidy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest growing ground cover for shade in Australia?
One of the fastest growing ground covers for shade in Australia is Native Violet (Viola hederacea). It spreads quickly to form a dense green mat and performs well in shaded and part-shaded garden areas.
What are the best ground cover plants for shade?
The best ground cover plants for shade include:
These plants are ideal for low-light areas, as they spread easily and require minimal maintenance once established.
What grows well in full shade in Australia?
Many hardy ground covers grow well in full shade, especially native and forest-floor species. Plants like Native Violet and Pratia pedunculata thrive in low-light conditions under trees, along fences, and in shaded garden beds.
Can ground cover plants grow under trees?
Yes, ground cover plants are perfect for planting under trees where grass usually struggles. They help reduce bare soil, suppress weeds, and improve the overall look of shaded areas without needing much upkeep.
What is the easiest ground cover plant to maintain?
Low-growing, spreading plants such as Native Violet and Ajuga reptans ‘Purpurea’ are among the easiest to maintain. Once established, they require only occasional watering and light pruning to stay tidy.
Do ground cover plants need full sun?
Not all ground cover plants need full sun. Many varieties are specifically suited to shade or part shade conditions, making them ideal for areas under trees or in sheltered garden spaces.
How quickly do ground cover plants spread?
Growth speed depends on the variety, but fast-growing options like Native Violet and Pratia pedunculata can begin spreading within one growing season when planted in suitable conditions.
Shop Shade Ground Cover Plants Online
Looking to fill your garden with easy-care, shade-loving plants? Explore our full range of ground cover plants, perfect for Australian conditions and delivered straight to your door.