When you think of fall foliage, trees with their brilliant canopies of reds, oranges, and yellows probably come to mind first. But let’s not forget about the stunning color that can be found much closer to the ground! Ground covers often get overlooked in the grand scheme of autumn garden planning, but they can really steal the show when given the chance. These low-growing plants do more than just fill in the gaps—they bring a whole new dimension of color and texture to your garden, especially in the fall. Whether you’re dealing with a tricky slope, a shady spot, or just want to add another layer of interest to your landscape, these ground covers have you covered.
One of the best things about fall-colored ground covers is their versatility. They can transform a dull, bare patch of earth into a vibrant carpet of color that’s not only beautiful but also functional. Many of these plants are also great for attracting pollinators or providing shelter for small critters as the weather cools down. And the best part? You don’t have to worry about them being invasive or taking over your garden. Let’s dive into five of my favorite ground covers that put on a spectacular show in autumn!
Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia ‘Aurea’)
Creeping Jenny is an absolute gem in the fall garden. This low-growing ground cover, native to Europe, transforms into a stunning golden carpet as the temperatures drop. While its vibrant yellow-green foliage is beautiful throughout the growing season, it really shines in the fall when it takes on a richer, more intense hue. Creeping Jenny is particularly versatile—it thrives in both sun and partial shade, making it an excellent choice for those tricky spots where other plants might struggle.
One thing I love about Creeping Jenny is how it spreads to create a dense mat that helps prevent weeds from taking over. While it’s not considered invasive, it does spread quickly, so be sure to keep an eye on it if you don’t want it to take over larger areas of your garden. This ground cover also provides a soft landing spot for small animals and insects, offering shelter as they prepare for winter. It’s easy to see why this plant is a favorite among gardeners looking for low-maintenance beauty with a big impact!
Foamflower (Tiarella cordifolia)
Foamflower is a delightful native ground cover that brings a splash of fall color to woodland gardens. Found naturally in the forests of North America, this plant is known for its heart-shaped leaves that turn shades of bronze, red, and purple in the autumn. The foliage alone is worth planting Foamflower, but this plant also produces lovely spikes of delicate white or pink flowers in the spring, adding another season of interest to your garden.
What’s particularly great about Foamflower is its adaptability to shady spots, where many other plants struggle. It’s a non-invasive species, so you can plant it freely without worrying about it overrunning your garden. In addition to its gorgeous fall foliage, Foamflower also attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies during its blooming season. And as the cooler weather sets in, the dense foliage provides excellent cover for small creatures, making your garden a safe haven for wildlife throughout the year.
Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense)
Wild Ginger is another fantastic native ground cover that adds a touch of magic to the fall garden. This plant, which hails from the woodlands of North America, is primarily known for its glossy, heart-shaped leaves that take on a rich, bronze hue as autumn arrives. While Wild Ginger is often appreciated for its ground-hugging, shade-loving nature, its fall transformation is what really makes it a standout in the landscape.
Not only does Wild Ginger offer beautiful fall foliage, but it’s also a workhorse in the garden. It spreads slowly to form a dense mat that helps suppress weeds, and it’s incredibly easy to care for. Unlike some ground covers that can become invasive, Wild Ginger is well-behaved, staying where you plant it. This plant is also valuable for wildlife, as its leaves provide cover for small insects and critters, and its roots are a food source for some types of wildlife. If you’re looking for a ground cover that’s both functional and visually striking, Wild Ginger is a fantastic choice.
Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)
Bearberry is a ground cover that truly shines in the fall. Native to North America, this low-growing evergreen shrub produces small, leathery leaves that turn a stunning shade of red in the autumn. The plant is well-suited to rocky or sandy soils and can even thrive in poor soil conditions, making it a great choice for challenging spots in your garden. Bearberry’s fall color is complemented by its small red berries, which persist into winter, adding even more visual interest.
One of the most appealing aspects of Bearberry is its ability to attract wildlife. The berries are a favorite food for birds like grouse and pheasants, while the dense, evergreen foliage offers excellent cover for small mammals and ground-nesting birds. Bearberry is also non-invasive, so you can plant it without fear of it taking over your garden. Whether you’re looking to add a splash of color to a difficult slope or create a wildlife-friendly garden, Bearberry is an excellent ground cover choice that will reward you with year-round beauty.
Ajuga (Ajuga reptans)
Ajuga, commonly known as Bugleweed, is a ground cover that offers an incredible fall display. This plant, native to Europe, features dark, glossy leaves that take on rich shades of bronze, burgundy, and purple as the weather cools. Ajuga is particularly valued for its ability to thrive in shady conditions, where its colorful foliage can brighten up even the darkest corners of your garden. During spring, it also produces spikes of blue or purple flowers, adding another layer of beauty to your landscape.
Ajuga is a quick spreader, so it’s fantastic for covering large areas or filling in gaps between other plants. However, it’s not invasive, so you don’t have to worry about it overrunning your garden. In addition to its stunning fall foliage, Ajuga is also great for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies when it’s in bloom. The dense foliage offers shelter for small creatures, making your garden a haven for wildlife year-round. If you’re looking for a ground cover that’s both eye-catching and easy to maintain, Ajuga is a top choice.
Ground covers with stunning fall foliage are a hidden treasure in the garden. They not only add vibrant color and texture to your landscape but also provide essential benefits like weed suppression and wildlife habitat. Each of these plants offers something unique, from Creeping Jenny’s golden hues to Bearberry’s red berries. By incorporating these ground covers into your garden, you’re not just filling space—you’re creating a beautiful, thriving ecosystem that will delight you season after season.
