| I need a recommendation on high sun, drought-resistant ground covers that are less than 12 |
| There are a number of ground cover plants suitable for your growing location that are considered drought tolerant once established. Licania michauxii (Gopher apple) grows 3-13" in height, leaves are dark green above, downy white below; red fruit in summer; tolerates drought and poor soils. Juniperus conferta (Shore juniper), grows 1-2', green to blue-green foliage; Fast grower; drought tolerant; most salt tolerant juniper; cultivars 'Compacta' and 'Blue Pacific' are particularly dwarfed. Juniperus horizontalis (Creeping juniper), grows 12' with green to blue-green foliage; may turn purple in winter; drought tolerant; cultivars 'Bar Harbor' and 'Blue rug' are particularly successful in your area. Lippia (Phyla) nodiflora (Match weed), grows only 3", Leaves greenish to purplish; red, purple and white flowers most of the year; Drought and wet tolerant; takes some foot traffic; easily established. Ophiopogon japonicus (Dwarf lily turf, Mondo grass), grows 6-12" with dark, glossy green leaves. Drought resistant; tolerates poor soils; good edging; no heavy foot traffic; flowers usually hidden by leaves. Hope one of these suggestions is just right for your landscape. |
