When landscaping your yard, choosing a drought-tolerant ground cover that can withstand both harsh sunlight and foot traffic is essential. These types of plants not only help conserve water but also provide an aesthetically pleasing solution to areas with heavy pedestrian use.

Whether you’re looking for low-maintenance solutions for walkways, patios, or garden paths, selecting the best ground covers that thrive in drought conditions is key.

From lush moss-like carpets to resilient, evergreen spreads, these options will help create an attractive, durable landscape.

In this article, we will explore 10 of the best drought-tolerant ground covers that are tough enough to walk on, making them perfect for lawns, pathways, and more.

10 Best Drought-Tolerant Ground Cover You Can Walk On

Let’s dive in and discover the top drought-tolerant ground covers you can walk on in various USDA Planting Zones, including Texas, Arizona, Florida, Missouri, Georgia, and California.

1. Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum)

Creeping Thyme is a low-growing, aromatic herb that thrives in dry conditions, making it an excellent choice for drought-tolerant ground cover. It forms dense mats that are perfect for walking on, providing a soft texture underfoot. Creeping Thyme flourishes in full sun and well-drained soil, ideal for USDA Zones 4-8, and is perfect for states like California, Arizona, and Texas.

This plant’s resilience makes it an excellent option for high-traffic areas like walkways, between stepping stones, and garden borders. Creeping Thyme is also known for its beautiful, tiny purple flowers that attract bees and other pollinators, adding color and life to your landscape. Best of all, it requires minimal watering once established and is highly resistant to pests and diseases.

Pros:

• Drought-tolerant
• Aromatic fragrance
• Low maintenance
• Bee-friendly
• Fast-growing
• Soft texture
• Evergreen in many zones

Cons:

• Can spread aggressively
• Requires full sun
• May not tolerate deep shade

2. Buffalograss (Bouteloua dactyloides)

Buffalograss is a drought-resistant grass that is perfect for areas with heavy foot traffic. It grows best in full sun and can handle a variety of soil types, making it suitable for USDA Zones 4-9. This grass variety is native to the Great Plains and thrives in states like Texas, Missouri, and Arizona, offering a durable and soft ground cover.

Buffalograss’s low-growing nature and ability to stay green throughout the summer, even in dry spells, makes it an excellent choice for lawns and areas that receive consistent foot traffic. Its tolerance to high heat and low water requirements also make it an eco-friendly choice. Additionally, Buffalograss is a natural habitat for wildlife, providing shelter and food for small animals.

Pros:

• Drought-tolerant
• Eco-friendly
• Low water needs
• Tolerates heavy foot traffic
• Resilient in heat
• Soft underfoot
• Attracts wildlife

Cons:

• May not thrive in shade
• Slower to establish
• Requires occasional mowing

3. Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia)

Creeping Jenny is a vigorous ground cover that thrives in dry, well-drained soils and full sun. Known for its bright green leaves and yellow flowers, this plant is perfect for areas that are regularly walked on, such as pathways or garden borders. It grows in USDA Zones 3-9 and is well-suited for regions like Florida, California, and Georgia.

Once established, Creeping Jenny is remarkably drought-tolerant and will cover large areas quickly. Its low-growing nature and ability to form dense mats make it an ideal option for creating a soft, durable walking surface. Furthermore, it is easy to maintain and does not require frequent watering.

Pros:

• Drought-tolerant
• Low-growing
• Bright, colorful foliage
• Easy to maintain
• Fast-growing
• Soft walking surface
• Resilient to pests

Cons:

• Can become invasive
• Requires full sun
• Not ideal for wet areas

4. Moss (Various Species)

Moss is a great alternative for ground cover in shaded areas with little foot traffic. However, some moss varieties are durable enough to withstand light foot traffic. Known for its ability to grow in low-moisture, acidic soils, moss is perfect for states with mild climates, such as California, Oregon, and Washington. It thrives in USDA Zones 3-8, with a preference for moist, shaded conditions.

Moss creates a lush, green carpet that feels cool to the touch and provides an aesthetically pleasing look to any landscape. Once established, moss requires minimal maintenance and can withstand drought once it has rooted well. Ideal for shaded walkways or as a filler between paving stones, moss is an eco-friendly choice for those looking to reduce water consumption.

Pros:

• Requires little water
• Thrives in shade
• Soft texture
• Eco-friendly
• Low maintenance
• Low-growing
• Non-invasive

Cons:

• Sensitive to foot traffic
• Needs acidic soil
• Not suitable for sun

5. Blue Rug Juniper (Juniperus horizontalis)

Blue Rug Juniper is a hardy evergreen that provides year-round coverage and withstands drought with ease. This ground cover is perfect for USDA Zones 3-9, thriving in states like Arizona, Georgia, and California. Its ability to grow in poor, dry soil makes it an excellent choice for pathways, slopes, or garden beds that experience heavy foot traffic.

With its dense, low-growing habit, Blue Rug Juniper forms a solid mat that is soft underfoot and adds a vibrant blue-green hue to the landscape. Its tolerance to foot traffic makes it ideal for walkways or outdoor seating areas. Additionally, it is highly resistant to pests and diseases and requires minimal watering once established.

Pros:

• Evergreen
• Drought-tolerant
• Tolerates foot traffic
• Requires minimal watering
• Low maintenance
• Pest-resistant
• Versatile landscape plant

Cons:

• Requires full sun
• Slow to establish
• Can spread aggressively

6. Sedum (Sedum spp.)

Sedum, commonly known as “stonecrop,” is a succulent that forms a dense, low-maintenance ground cover, perfect for drought-prone areas. Thriving in USDA Zones 3-9, Sedum is commonly found in areas like California, Arizona, and Texas, where summers are hot and dry. It’s highly tolerant of heat and poor soil, making it ideal for high-traffic walkways or xeriscaped gardens.

Sedum comes in various species, many of which produce colorful flowers that attract pollinators, providing a beautiful, functional ground cover. Its fleshy leaves store water, allowing it to withstand periods of drought without compromising its appearance. With its ability to spread quickly and tolerate foot traffic, Sedum makes for a durable, attractive choice.

Pros:

• Drought-tolerant
• Attractive flowers
• Low-maintenance
• Resilient to foot traffic
• Requires minimal water
• Attracts pollinators
• Easy to grow

Cons:

• Needs full sun
• Can spread too much
• Needs well-drained soil

7. Ajuga (Ajuga reptans)

Ajuga, or “bugleweed,” is a fast-growing, low-maintenance ground cover that thrives in both sun and shade. It grows well in USDA Zones 3-9, and its ability to handle dry conditions makes it perfect for locations in Texas, Georgia, and Florida. Ajuga’s dense foliage provides an excellent walking surface while also adding rich color to your garden with its purple, blue, or pink flowers.

Ajuga’s resilience to drought and its ability to grow in a variety of soils make it an ideal choice for areas that receive foot traffic. It spreads rapidly, creating a thick carpet of leaves that helps suppress weeds and conserve moisture. The plant is also known for its ability to thrive in both sunny and partially shaded locations, making it a versatile option for many landscapes.

Pros:

• Drought-tolerant
• Low-maintenance
• Attractive flowers
• Spreads quickly
• Works in sun or shade
• Low-growing
• Helps with weed control

Cons:

• Can become invasive
• May need regular trimming
• Not ideal for wet soils

8. Ground Morning Glory (Convolvulus sabatius)

Ground Morning Glory is an excellent drought-tolerant ground cover that is perfect for walking on, as it forms dense, low-growing mats. This perennial plant thrives in full sun and is best suited for USDA Zones 5-9, making it a great choice for states like Texas, Georgia, and Florida. Known for its vibrant flowers that bloom in a variety of colors, including blue, purple, and white, Ground Morning Glory will add a pop of color to any landscape.

This plant’s ability to withstand drought makes it ideal for regions with long dry spells. Ground Morning Glory is well-suited for areas with moderate foot traffic, as it will quickly establish itself and cover the ground with a thick, lush carpet. Additionally, it is low-maintenance and requires little water once established, making it a perfect choice for sustainable gardening.

Pros:

• Drought-tolerant
• Low-maintenance
• Attracts pollinators
• Vibrant flowers
• Thrives in full sun
• Fast-growing
• Requires little water

Cons:

• May become invasive
• Needs well-drained soil
• Can be susceptible to pests

9. Creeping Red Fescue (Festuca rubra)

Creeping Red Fescue is a fine-textured, drought-tolerant grass that forms a dense, lush carpet, perfect for high-traffic areas. This cool-season grass thrives in USDA Zones 4-8, making it an ideal option for regions such as Missouri, California, and Georgia. It is commonly used for lawns, parks, and as ground cover in public spaces due to its ability to handle foot traffic while maintaining its beauty.

Not only is Creeping Red Fescue drought-tolerant, but it also requires less maintenance than traditional grass varieties. Its fine texture creates a soft surface underfoot, making it a great option for pathways or walkways. Once established, it is able to handle dry periods without showing significant signs of stress, making it a resilient choice for various landscaping needs.

Pros:

• Drought-tolerant
• Low-maintenance
• Soft underfoot
• Ideal for lawns
• Tolerates foot traffic
• Low water requirements
• Good for cooler climates

Cons:

• Slower establishment
• Requires occasional mowing
• Needs full sun for best results

10. Dymondia (Dymondia margaretae)

Dymondia, also known as “Silver Carpet,” is an extremely drought-tolerant ground cover that can handle both foot traffic and dry conditions. With its striking silver-green foliage and bright yellow flowers, Dymondia is perfect for states like California, Arizona, and Texas in USDA Zones 7-10. This hardy plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it an excellent choice for pathways, patios, or between stepping stones.

Dymondia forms a low, dense mat that is not only visually appealing but also durable enough to withstand foot traffic. It is a great option for creating a soft, walkable surface while conserving water. Additionally, it is resistant to pests and requires minimal maintenance, making it a perfect low-maintenance addition to any garden.

Pros:

• Drought-tolerant
• Low-maintenance
• Attracts pollinators
• Soft underfoot
• Tolerates foot traffic
• Low-growing
• Requires little water

Cons:

• Needs full sun
• Slow to establish
• Requires well-drained soil

Drought-Tolerant Ground Covers You Can Walk On FAQs

1. What is drought-tolerant ground cover?

Drought-tolerant ground covers are plants that can thrive in dry conditions with minimal water.

These plants have developed the ability to survive long periods without rainfall by conserving water, making them ideal for low-maintenance landscapes.

Some common drought-tolerant ground covers include creeping thyme, buffalo grass, and sedum.

2. Can I walk on drought-tolerant ground covers?

Yes, many drought-tolerant ground covers are specifically designed to handle light to moderate foot traffic.

Plants like creeping thyme, buffalo grass, and creeping Jenny are known to be resilient underfoot, forming dense mats that remain healthy despite occasional walking.

However, the durability of each plant depends on its specific variety and growing conditions.

3. Which drought-tolerant ground covers are best for high-traffic areas?

If you need ground cover for an area with regular foot traffic, look for plants like creeping thyme, ground morning glory, and buffalo grass.

These varieties are well-suited to areas like walkways, patios, or lawns where people walk frequently. They are tough enough to withstand the wear and tear while maintaining a lush appearance.

4. How do I maintain drought-tolerant ground covers?

Maintenance for drought-tolerant ground covers is relatively low compared to other plants. Most of these plants require little water once established, and they thrive in full sun.

Regular tasks include occasional trimming, removing dead or damaged plants, and ensuring they have well-drained soil. Some varieties may require light mowing or minimal pruning to maintain their shape.

5. Are drought-tolerant ground covers safe for pets and children?

Yes, many drought-tolerant ground covers are safe for pets and children. Plants like creeping thyme, ground morning glory, and sedum are non-toxic and pose no harm to humans or animals.

However, always check the specific variety you choose to ensure it is safe, especially if you have young children or pets prone to nibbling on plants.

6. Can drought-tolerant ground covers grow in shady areas?

While most drought-tolerant ground covers prefer full sun, there are several varieties that can grow in partial shade.

For example, creeping Jenny and ground morning glory can tolerate some shade while still thriving. If you have shady spots in your garden, look for varieties that are adaptable to both dry conditions and low light levels.

7. How long does it take for drought-tolerant ground covers to establish?

The time it takes for drought-tolerant ground covers to establish depends on the type of plant and the growing conditions.

Generally, it can take anywhere from a few months to a year for the plants to fully spread and form a dense carpet. Most of these ground covers will start to show signs of establishment within the first few months, especially if they are watered occasionally during the early stages of growth

Conclusion

Drought-tolerant ground covers are a practical and sustainable choice for landscaping, especially in regions where water conservation is a priority. The plants listed above provide durable, walkable surfaces while thriving in dry conditions.

By incorporating these plants into your landscape, you can enjoy a beautiful and low-maintenance outdoor space that also helps reduce your water consumption.

Choosing the right ground cover can save you time, money, and effort in maintaining a landscape that flourishes even in dry conditions.

Whether you’re landscaping in California, Arizona, Texas, or Florida, these plants will perform well across USDA zones, ensuring that your outdoor space is both functional and beautiful. Start planning your drought-tolerant ground cover today, and take the first step toward a sustainable garden that will stand the test of time.