Two- to Three-Inch-Tall Plants for Borders

Alyssum

• Lobularia maritima, or sweet alyssum, is a low-growing annual often used as a border plant in partial-shade areas. Grown from seeds or bedding plants, the plant will quickly fill in to create a lush and delicate-looking border with tiny, fragrant flower clusters in white, pink or lavender. "New Carpet of Snow," "Easter Bonnet," "Rosie O'Day" and "Easter Basket" are sweet alyssum varieties that maintain a growth height of 2 to 3 inches.

Dianthus

• The genus Dianthus encompasses more than 300 species, but the species commonly known as dianthus, or pink, is a favorite border flower for sunny and partial-sun locations. Pinks are available in a range of flower colors and single- or double-petal varieties, but all will bloom throughout the growing season with a clove scent. Shorter-growing pink varieties include "Double Midget," "Blue Hills," "Fire Witch," "La Bourboule" and "Mars."

Dwarf Mondo Grass

• In some situations, a low-growing border plant is needed that does not produce abundant flowers. Varieties of Ophiopogon japonicus var. "Nanus," or dwarf mondo grass, grow no higher than 3 inches, with dark green leaves and no flowers. "Kioto" and "Nippon" dwarf mondo grass varieties grow less than 4 inches and will have tiny white or lavender flowers during the summer. When established, the perennial dwarf mondo grass will fill in and spread with thick foliage that needs no trimming or special care.

Sedum

• Sedum can be an attractive succulent low-growing border plant, particularly in hot, dry locations. There are more than 400 species of sedum, with most being hardy to USDA Hardiness Zone 3 and very easy-care. Visually interesting rosette-shaped plants that will produce bright flowers, low-growing sedum spreads to create a full blanket border. Sedum varieties that grow short for borders include "John Creech," "Weihenstephaner Gold," "Acre," "Autumn Joy" and "Angelina."