A low, evergreen groundcover with small dark green leaves and periwinkle-blue flowers in spring. In the Phoenix Valley it is strictly a shade plant, chosen to carpet cool, sheltered beds where little else grows.
Living with it in the Phoenix Valley
Watering
Follow the shrub, groundcover and succulent schedule in our Landscape Care guide. It wants more consistent moisture than most groundcovers on that schedule and yellows quickly when it dries out in summer, but the soil should still drain.
Pruning
Trim the edges to keep runners out of paths and neighboring beds. An occasional hard cut or mow in late winter thickens a planting that has gone thin.
Heat
Our summer heat is the main limit. It holds up only in full or nearly full shade, with no afternoon or western sun. Even in good spots it may look tired by late summer.
Pests
In damp shade, watch for aphids, snails and slugs.
How our designers use it
North-side beds and courtyards
It fills the shaded side of the house, narrow side yards and enclosed courtyards with a soft green carpet.
Under dense shade
It can cover the ground beneath large, shady trees or covered patios where sun-loving groundcovers fail.
Spilling over edges
Its trailing stems soften the edge of shaded raised planters and pots.
Good to know
Spreading
It roots as it runs and can become invasive in moist settings. Use edging to contain it and keep it away from natural areas and washes.
Around the pool
It has no thorns and little litter, but it needs shade and steady water, so it rarely suits a sunny pool deck.
