Phyla nodiflora
A vigorous, low-growing perennial ground cover that mats tightly to two to three inches tall and spreads several feet by rooting stems. It thrives in full sun, tolerates heat and a wide range of soils, and is notably drought tolerant once established, though it also handles regular irrigation. Small lilac to pinkish-white clover-like flowers appear spring through fall and draw bees. Use it as a tough, low-water lawn substitute, for erosion control on slopes and parking strips, and to fill broad open areas where foot traffic is light to moderate.