English ivy is the classic evergreen ground cover: deep green, lobed leaves on trailing stems that knit into a solid carpet about six inches deep. It fills dry shade under mature trees where lawns give up, and deer and rabbits leave it alone.

Plant it in part shade to full shade; in Birmingham it appreciates protection from hot afternoon sun. Water the first season, then it handles drought. Edge the bed once or twice a year to keep runners where you want them, and keep it off tree trunks and siding.