Grass-like Ground Covers

Mondo grass and Lilyturf (also below)

A recent trip to the Getty Center in Los Angeles had me examining ground covers. Here are some examples of plants that can cover the soil under trees, on slopes, and along walkways or swaths of grass -- most of them will not handle foot traffic, but they are wonderful for creating lushness and texture, while preserving a view. They take much less maintenance than traditional lawn grass.

Love the contrasting colors

Society Garlic carpets a slope under Crape Myrtles (not so good near primary sitting areas because it gives off an odor). I love the texture and color here. The garlic creates waves of softness and picks up the gray of the tree trunks.

Deer Grass and Dymondia border turf grass. Interesting use of Dymondia. There's a bit of tension between the greens and grays here, but I like it.