Mazus: A Low-Growing Ground Cover Worth Considering
If you’re searching for a charming ground cover that doesn’t mind getting its feet wet, mazus might just catch your eye. This petite perennial has been quietly making itself at home across American gardens, though it’s not actually native to our shores.
What Exactly Is Mazus?
Mazus is a low-growing forb – basically a soft-stemmed plant without woody tissue – that can behave as either an annual or perennial depending on your climate. Think of it as nature’s living carpet, spreading close to the ground and producing delicate purple or blue flowers that seem to hover just above the foliage.
Where Does Mazus Come From?
Here’s the thing about mazus: it’s not a North American native. This little ground hugger originally hails from Asia and Australia, but it’s made itself quite comfortable here. In fact, it now grows wild in 32 states, from Alabama to Wisconsin, and everywhere in between. Once established, it reproduces on its own without any help from gardeners.
Why Gardeners Love (and Sometimes Worry About) Mazus
Mazus has some undeniable charms that make it appealing to gardeners:
- Creates a dense, weed-suppressing carpet
- Produces attractive small flowers that pollinators enjoy
- Thrives in areas where grass struggles
- Low maintenance once established
- Perfect for filling gaps between stepping stones
However, since it’s non-native and spreads readily, some gardeners prefer to stick with native alternatives that provide similar benefits while supporting local ecosystems.
Where Mazus Shines in the Garden
This adaptable little plant works wonderfully in several garden situations:
- Rock gardens where it can cascade over edges
- Between pavers and stepping stones
- As a lawn alternative in small areas
- Alpine and informal garden settings
- Areas with consistent moisture
Growing Mazus Successfully
If you decide to give mazus a try, here’s how to keep it happy:
Climate Requirements: Mazus generally thrives in USDA hardiness zones 5-9, making it suitable for most temperate regions.
Light and Soil: This ground cover is fairly adaptable, growing well in partial shade to full sun. It prefers moist, well-draining soil but can tolerate various soil types once established.
Planting Tips: Space plants about 6-12 inches apart if you’re starting with individual plants. Mazus spreads naturally, so patience pays off – it will fill in gaps on its own.
Care and Maintenance: Once established, mazus is refreshingly low-maintenance. Keep it moderately moist, especially during dry spells, and it will reward you with steady growth and regular blooms.
Supporting Pollinators and Wildlife
While mazus does attract small pollinators like bees to its tiny flowers, it’s worth noting that native plants typically provide more comprehensive benefits to local wildlife and ecosystems.
Native Alternatives to Consider
If you love the idea of a low-growing ground cover but prefer to support native species, consider these alternatives:
- Wild ginger for shaded areas
- Creeping phlox for sunny spots
- Native sedums for dry conditions
- Wild strawberry for edible landscaping
The Bottom Line on Mazus
Mazus can be a useful and attractive addition to the right garden situation. While it’s not native, it’s also not considered invasive in most areas where it grows. If you choose to plant it, you’ll likely find it to be a reliable, low-fuss ground cover that provides consistent results. Just remember that choosing native alternatives when possible helps support local wildlife and maintains the ecological balance that makes our gardens part of the larger natural community.
Whether you go with mazus or opt for a native alternative, the key is choosing plants that work well in your specific conditions and align with your gardening goals.
