Hi Guys,

I am seeking a short ground cover that can grow in well-shaded areas.

I live on a property in the Scenic Rim (SEQld) with lots of snakes in the area. I am trying to create a child friendly play area for my very active toddler and new bubba, due next year.

I am hoping that there is something out there that meets my criteria:

-Short, so not to encourage a hiding spot for an nasty snakes
-Thick enough to suffocate out weeds
-Non-toxic to children
-Loves a well-shaded area in summer, more sun in winter (under deciduous trees)
-Soil receives good rainfall, but I am assuming with it being in raised beds, the soil well drained.

I look forward to your response. Fingers crossed there is an answer :o)

Welcome, BindiMack!
I have no answer, but I'll bet someone smarter than I am will chime in soon, and I'll be watching for the answer, too!

The first thing that came up in my mind is Ophiopogon japonicus 'Nana',
http://www.wilsonbrosgardens.c.... I have it in shaded areas of my garden, stays green all year through and is very tough!

In China, Ophiopogon it is being used as a healing herb:
http://www.chineseherbshealing...

I just found out that mine is called: Ophiopogon japonicus 'Minor' which is also a dwarf cultivar, only about 2 inches tall.
https://www.google.be/search?q...

Not sure if Vinca minor, also tough and evergreen is short enough, it probably depends how big your snakes are..It would fill in the area quicker though than the dwarf mondo grass.
https://www.google.be/search?q...

http://www.thepoisongarden.co....

Maybe I'm thinking of something else (it happens) but I'm a thinking that vinca minor is very aggressive. But wait. Let me check on that. And I did. According to Mr. Smarty Plants at the Lady Byrd Johnson Wildflower Center, Vinca minor and Vinca major are both non-natives.

If you follow this link, you can do a fairly specific search. You enter your state or province, conditions such as evergreen, etc., etc. See what comes up. Might help.

http://www.wildflower.org/plan...

Thank you, Myriam and Joan! You've given me some great ideas. I hope it helps the OP, too!

This year I tried out a new-to-me plant for a mostly shade area of my home.
Japanese spurge is the one I have. Seems to be doing great. I'm not sure if it'll be good for your spot, but it's an idea!

Mazus Reptans