Do you have a sloped patch of ground that you wish to cover with something other than grass? Why not try an Australian-native ground cover?! There are many Australian native ground cover options for slopes. When landscaping steep slopes in Australia it can be worth considering using ground cover plants to help mitigate erosion issues. These plants can be planted to help control the erosion that may otherwise happen during heavy rain and storms.
In this blog, we take a look at some of the best Australian native ground cover for slopes.
Native Violet
This native ground cover has green leaves that grow closely together and pretty white and purple flowers that shoot upwards on thin stems. The contrast between the bright green leaves and white and purple flowers is quite striking, and the plant will generally have a few flowers all year round (although most will appear in the spring and summer). Native Violet can be grown on the ground, in rockeries, or in pots. This plant is pretty versatile and can be grown in full sun positions all the way through to shaded areas.
Westringia
Westringia can be grown as a shrub, hedge, or ground cover. There are several different varieties of Westringia to choose from, including Low Horizon, Flat’n’Fruity, and Mundi. These plants have evergreen foliage that is grey-green in colour, with tiny white flowers. Westringia plants like full sun to partial shade locations that have well-drained soil. This plant tends to be pretty hardy, making it great for beginner gardeners. The white flowers of Westringia plants are also great for attracting birds, bees and butterflies to a garden.
Grevillea
The grevillea is a popular ground cover and shrub. These plants have a very dense growth that makes them ideal for areas on slopes, and places you wish to stop weeds from getting a foothold. These plants tend to have green leaves and bright red or pink flowers that attract bees and butterflies. Grevillea provides a quick growing ground cover for your garden. There are many different varieties of grevillea suitable for use as ground cover, including Carpet Layer, Gaudichaudii, and Bronze Rambler. Plant your grevillea in full sun or partial shade, using well-draining soil. Some people can be allergic to the leaves of the grevillea, so keep this in mind if you bring the plant into your garden.
Rock Daisy
This Australian-native is a lovely ground cover for gardens. With beautiful little flowers that resemble larger daisies, these plants can brighten up a space. Grow them on the ground as cover, or in a hanging pot as a stunning eye-catching decorative piece. While the rock daisy generally has purple flowers, there are several varieties of rock daisy with differing colours, including the Brachyscome Whitewash that has dainty white flowers, and the Hot Candy that has bright pink petals. Plant your rock daisy bush in a location with full sun or part shade and well-draining soil. This hardy plant doesn’t require too much water once it becomes established, but be sure to give it a bit of a water during extended dry periods.
