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Elite Midwest Landscaping Inc.

Phone (630) 851-8829             Fax (630) 839-2595

 

Ground Covers


Purple leaf wintercreeper ‘Euonymous fortunei coloratus’

Purple Leaf Wintercreeper is a great year round ground cover for you to plant that is extremely hardy and flourishes even in sub-zero areas. Green leaves spring and summer and purplish red leaves in fall and winter. A ground cover that does not lose its leaves in winter. Presents a colorful, fresh appearance throughout the year. Grows in both sun and shade. Stops erosion on steep banks! As Purple Leaf Wintercreeper grows and spreads over the ground, each of its many stems forms roots. One of the best ways to join the ecological battle to preserve our natural resources is by planting Red-Leaved Wintercreeper. As it binds the soil, not only from its original roots, but from roots along the stems, it effectively prevents the blowing and washing away of precious topsoil. Plant 2-3' apart -- cover large areas economically! Because of their unique habit of growth, you can fill large areas economically. Plant under trees where grass won't grow. Can be planted up to 3' apart. Once planted, no shearing or other maintenance is required they take care of themselves! We send number one plants.

 


English Ivy ‘Hedera helix’

English Ivy, Hedera helix one of the most adaptable and variable of all ground covers. English Ivy is an excellent ground cover and is particularly useful where little else will grow.

 


Japansese Spurge ‘Pachysandra terminalis’

The Japanese Spurge plant, Pachysandra terminalis, and also known as Pachysandra, is a shrubby, evergreen ground cover which grows 8-12" high and spreads by rhizomes to form a dense carpet of rich, dark green foliage. Oval leaves (2-4" long) appear primarily in whorls at the stem ends. Tiny white flowers in 1-2" long, terminal (hence the species name) spikes bloom in early spring. Flowers are not particularly showy, but on close inspection are quite attractive. Pachysandra can be used as a lawn substitute in shaded non-traffic areas and ground cover for shade areas. It is an excellent selection for shaded areas under shallow-rooted trees. Plant 6 inches apart. This perennial plant needs partial shade to full shade to prosper.

 


Boston Ivy ‘Parthenocissus tricuspidat’

Boston Ivy, Parthenocissus tricuspidata, is also known as Cottage Ivy and Japanese Ivy. This deciduous vine has tendrils which have 5 to 8 branches, each ending in adhesive-like tips; it has the ability to literally cement itself to the wall and therefore needs no support; good on trees, will also crawl along the ground; secretes calcium carbonate which serves as adhesive. This vine can reach a height or spread exceeding 30 feet.  The plant tolerates dry soil .The glossy, dark green, three-lobed leaves turn bright red in the fall. The showy leaves are held late into fall or early winter. The plant produces bluish fruits that are not highly ornamental. The blooms of the Boston Ivy are fairly inconspicuous but they attract multitudes of bees. Use in full sun to full shade, salt tolerant, handles most all conditions.

 


Periwinkle Vinca minor

An evergreen trailing vine with dark green 1" x 1 1/2" - 3" leaves. Blue-lilac 1"-2" flowers in early spring. Spreads quickly once established. Fairly drought resistant, a fast grower with regular watering. Prefers shade and well-drained, fertile, loamy soil. Will also grow well in full sun in northern zones (and in most southern zones with ample water). Tolerant of infrequent foot traffic. Mature prostrate height 8" - 18", spacing 10" - 15".