Shade-Tolerant Ground Covers and Shrubs for a Fountain Garden in East Texas

Shady corner by house in East Texas (sandy, well-drained). Fountain planned. Wants ground cover (no ivy), plants, and asks about dwarf crape myrtle in shade.

Ground Covers (No Ivy)

• Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata) – spring carpet, sun to part shade.
• Alyssum – sweet white flowers, self-sows.
• Tapien (Verbena hybrid) – low, spreading, long bloom.

Dwarf Crape Myrtle in Shade?

Hesitant. They need full sun for flowers and mildew resistance. Morning sun only = leggy, few blooms.

Design Suggestion

1. Evergreen shrub circle at fountain base: Cherry Laurel or 'Helleri' Holly.
2. Flowering perennials in front.
3. Ground cover outer ring.
4. Stepping stones + small bench.