Best Ground Covers to Grow in Hawaii
Hawaii spans USDA Zones 10–13, typically Zone 10. We've broken out 5 ground cover varieties by zone — pick your zone below or find the right varieties for your specific part of the state.
Varieties
5
for Hawaii
USDA
Zones 10–13
320–365 days season
Beginner
3
easy to grow
Heirloom
0
heritage varieties
Hawaii in USDA Zones 10–13
Hawaii spans Zones 10–13. Variety lists below are organized by zone — start with your zone for the most accurate recommendations.
Growing Ground Covers in Hawaii
Zone 10 presents unique opportunities and challenges for ground cover gardening that many northern gardeners can only dream of. With an exceptionally long growing season of approximately 320 days and minimal frost risk, you have the luxury of maintaining lush, green ground covers year-round. However, this tropical and subtropical climate also means dealing with intense heat, high humidity, and potential drought conditions that can stress many traditional ground cover varieties.
The key to success in Zone 10 is selecting ground covers that can handle both the blessing and curse of perpetual warmth. Look for varieties that offer excellent heat tolerance, can manage moisture extremes from heavy rains to dry spells, and won't become overly aggressive in the extended growing season. Many cool-season ground covers that thrive in northern zones will struggle with your summer intensity, while others will spread more vigorously than expected.
The varieties I've selected for Zone 10 include both tropical-adapted classics like Liriope and Mondo Grass, which practically thrive on neglect in your climate, and surprisingly resilient temperate plants like Creeping Thyme and certain Sedums that adapt well to your conditions with proper placement and care. These choices will give you reliable coverage, manageable growth habits, and the ability to create beautiful, low-maintenance landscapes that work with your climate rather than against it.
Zone 10 Ground Covers for Hawaii★ Most of HI
5 varieties · Last frost January 31 · 320-day season
Zone 11 Ground Covers for Hawaii
1 variety · Year-round growing
Zone 12 Ground Covers for Hawaii
1 variety · Year-round growing
Zone 13 Ground Covers for Hawaii
1 variety · Year-round growing
Zone 10 Growing Tips for Hawaii
In Zone 10, your planting windows are much more flexible than in colder zones, but timing still matters for establishment success. Plant most ground covers during your cooler months – October through February – when they can establish root systems without immediately facing summer stress. The period right after your average first frost date in mid-December through early spring is particularly ideal, as soil remains workable and temperatures are more moderate.
Take advantage of your minimal frost risk by transplanting established plants almost any time except during peak summer heat (June through August). However, newly planted ground covers will need consistent moisture during establishment, which can be challenging during your intense summer months. If you must plant in summer, focus on the most heat-tolerant varieties like Liriope, Mondo Grass, and Creeping Juniper, and provide afternoon shade and regular irrigation.
Your biggest challenge won't be frost protection but managing rapid growth and preventing aggressive spreaders from taking over. Many ground covers that grow slowly in northern climates can become invasive in your year-round growing conditions. Install root barriers for vigorous spreaders like Creeping Jenny and English Ivy, and plan for more frequent division and maintenance. Also, prepare for fungal issues during humid summer months by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering when possible.