From a design perspective, shrubs and ground covers are the walls and boundaries of the yard. But they can also be focal points.

From a wildlife perspective, they provide habitat. They also hold organic debris to the ground which enriches the soil as they grow. Most of these plants will service wildlife in other ways too—as nectar plants, larval host plants, and more.

When selecting plants, pay attention to the eventual dimensions, cold hardiness, and other needs the plant has, so that you are putting the right plant in the right place.