Groundcovers & Stepping Stones

February 15, 2012

Stepping Stone Path w/ Moneywort Groundcover

When specifying plant materials for stepping stone, or tobishi, pathways in Japanese gardens it is important to consider the size of the stone. A larger stone will allow for a taller groundcover, say one that grows about 5-8 inches, while smaller stones require a shorter plant selection of not more than 4 inches tall. Planting of groundcovers softens and blends pathways into its surroundings and should be chosen with considerations to the plants texture, color, tone (shade of color) and light required. As in all elements of the garden, the closer it is to the building and primary viewing areas the greater its impact and importance. Groundcovers in general are often an important plant material in Japanese Gardens, especially a tsuboniwa, or courtyard gardens. The types of plants available vary from region to region, but a couple of my favorite here in Minnesota are Gold Carpet Sedum (less than 6 inches), Golden Moneywort (less than 6 inches) and Pachysandra (8-10 inches). Another great groundcover to consider is a Creeping Thyme, which is a tough low maintenance plant. Also, if you have the space you should consider incorporating a compact shrub to create a focal point and added visual interest.

The Gold Carpet Sedum is a deciduous succulent that is a matt-forming plant with bright yellow-green foliage and yellow flowers. In addition to planting around stepping stones this plant also used in rock gardens. Golden Carpet Sedum is a fast aggressive grower that prefers well drained soil and full sun.

Golden Moneywort, or Golden Creeping Jenny, is a low growing evergreen groundcover with rounded yellow leaves. This groundcover is a fast and aggressive grower that can handle damper soils than other plants and can be planted in sun or partial shade.

Pachysandra terminalis is a groundcover that has great contrast to the two lower growing groundcovers mentioned above. Pachysandra with its evergreen dark green foliage look great when planted adjacent to Golden Moneywort and/or Gold Carpet Sedum. I have used this combination frequently and clients absolutely love it. Pachysandra will spread by rhizomes eventually creating a lush even matt of green. Plant this groundcover in shade to full shade light conditions.

If you would like our help with your pathway garden please contact us, Niwa Design Studio, at 952-470-1882.

Posted in Asian Gardens, Garden Types, Landscape, Paths, Perennials, Plant Materials, Plants for Special Conditions, Walks