The Low-Growing Shrub That You Can Grow As A Ground Cover In Dry Areas

While you might think of plants that spread through underground rhizomes or above-ground stolons as making the perfect ground covers, there are also low-growing shrubs that can serve the same purpose. One such plant is the 'Gro-Low' fragrant sumac (Rhus aromatica 'Gro-Low'). It also does well in dry areas, as it's drought-tolerant and doesn't mind growing in shallow rocky soil. This makes it ideal for those arid spots in your garden, especially if you're also looking for some effective erosion control on sloped sections. Plus, the shrub's versatility can even make it an easy-care ground cover for your flower beds.

Although this variety of sumac only grows to a height of around 3 feet, it can easily spread to a width of 8 feet. This ground cover-like spread is possible thanks to the plant's habit of producing roots whenever the stems come in contact with the soil. So basically, the plant propagates itself through layering without any assistance from you. Apart from being a great low-growing ground cover, this plant also offers seasonal interest. During active growth, it displays attractive glossy green leaves which turn a gorgeous orange-red color in the fall. But before this foliage even appears, you'll see small yellow flower spikes in early spring. After flowering, you should notice tiny red berries that are attractive to small mammals like possums, raccoons, and chipmunks. You'll even find that this fresh-smelling plant will bring mourning doves to your yard thanks to those scarlet berries. 

If you happen to have one of those dry areas in your yard where even the toughest weeds won't survive over summer, you might be surprised that this fragrant sumac will do just fine there. It's a species that you can just plant in your yard and forget about until you spot its brilliantly colored foliage in the fall. And, if it does start to get a bit unruly, a quick trim in early spring will have it looking nice and neat again. 'Gro-Low' will thrive in either full sun or part shade and is not that fussy about the type of soil, although it does prefer a well-drained medium. It can be grown over a wide range of climates, specifically in USDA hardiness zones 3 through 9.

Another interesting feature of this plant is the lemon scent you'll notice if you crush the leaves. Plus, it's one of those highly variable plants that has different male and female flowers. These can appear on the same plant, or some may only have one or the other. Keep in mind that it's only the female flowers that will produce the berries in late summer. And, if those benefits aren't enough to grow this cultivar as a dry area ground cover, it's also deer and rabbit resistant. This makes 'Gro-Low' perfect for adding to your list of beautiful ground cover plants that deer won't touch.