Relatively few large, vigorous, hardy ground cover plants that flower tolerate shade. Hydrangea vines are one of them....

Unlike many of the plants we've discussed so far, hydrangea vines are climbers. But that doesn't mean they can't function as ground cover plants, as well. The picture above shows an example.

Hydrangea vines (Hydrangea anomala ssp. petiolaris) tolerate shade. In fact, in hot climates, hydrangea vines prefer a location with at least partial shade. Elsewhere, they'll do just as well in more sunny areas.

These ground cover plants will bloom more profusely if they receive sufficient sunlight.