There are a number of native plants that are suitable for ground covers in the northeast. Here are a few suggestions, so choose the best plant for your growing conditions:

Allegheny pachysandra (Pachysandra procumbens): Suitable for shade. 8-12 inches tall with spikes of small flowers in May. Will stay evergreen in winter in USDA Zone 6 and warmer.

Appalachian barren strawberry (Waldsteinia fragarioides): Will tolerate dry shade but will grow in full sun. Semi-evergreen with yellow flowers in spring.

Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi): Small shiny leaves and red fruit.

Creeping thyme (Thymus spp.): A number of thyme species and cultivars are creeping. Aromatic plants with nice flowers. Best for a dry, well-drained, sunny site.

Creeping mint (Meehania cordata): Best in partial shade. Blue Flowers in May and later.

Creeping phlox (Phlox subulata): Almost evergreen. Pink flowers in spring. Cultivars with other colors available. Best in full sun.

Green and Gold (Chrysogonum virginianum): Best for full or partial shade. Yellow flowers all summer in cooler climates.

Virginia strawberry (Fragaria virginiana): Best in full sun. Fruits are edible.

Wild geranium (Geranium maculatum): Clumping perennial so plant close together. Pink to lilac flowers. Full sun to part shade.

Wild ginger (Asarum canadense). Best in shade. Heart-shaped shiny leaves.

For more information you can consult this website.

https://www.bbg.org/gardening/article/native_groundcovers.

You may also find our guide Gardening with Native Plants useful.

Courtesy of NYBG Plant Information Service