ground cover

or groundcover

noun

1. the herbaceous plants and low shrubs in a forest, considered as a whole.
2. any of a variety of low-growing or trailing plants used to cover the ground in areas where grass is difficult to grow, as in dense shade or on steep slopes.

ground cover

noun

1. 1. dense low herbaceous plants and shrubs that grow over the surface of the ground, esp, in a forest, preventing soil erosion or, in a garden, stifling weeds
   2. ( as modifier )

      ground-cover plants

Word History and Origins

Origin of ground cover¹

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

The problem with grass is that it’s also the most expensive ground cover to maintain.

From Freakonomics

If you see native plants you like that are growing well naturally, consider using them as a ground cover in your landscape.

From Popular-Science

Native plants are often your best choice for successful ground covers.

From Popular-Science

If you use herbicide, it should be safe to plant your ground cover after three days, but make sure you check the label to be sure.

From Popular-Science

Cheryl Ann Bearss also paints arboreal scenes, including a charming series of muted, hazy miniatures of ground cover.

From Washington Post

The ground cover is sparce; apparently only a few small herbs and ferns live on the heavily shaded forest floor.

From Project Gutenberg

This habitat is characterized by a cool, moist climate, many rotting logs, and a moist ground cover of leaves and needles.

From Project Gutenberg

None has been observed on the ground or beneath ground-cover by day.

From Project Gutenberg

Perhaps gorse forms the best ground cover for the preservation of game; but it is far from being the most agreeable to shoot in.

From Project Gutenberg

Have you tried planting your bulbs with any of the ground cover plants that will take away the bare look that most bulb beds have?

From Project Gutenberg