by 
The Curious Bag
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Groundcovers (also, ground covers) are plants that cover the soil. The University of Illinois extension points out that turfgrass is the most common groundcover planted in outdoor spaces, but usually groundcover refers to growth other than grass.
Size
Groundcovers don't have to be the size of mown grass. They are about 1 inch to 4 feet tall.
Importance
Groundcover prevents erosion. Indeed, that has been its traditional use. Nongrass groundcovers are used in places that have difficulty growing grass or on slopes.
Uses
Besides being used to prevent erosion, groundcovers are planted to prevent weeds, make barriers, act as guides and transitions and create a sense of distinct areas in a landscape, among other things.
Types
Some groundcovers are evergreens, others die back over the winter. Those that die back can be used where winter snow will cover ground during winter.
Plants
Among plants used as groundcover, besides grass, ivy is a common choice. Other choices are phlox, Japanese spurge, moss, thyme, mint and many others.
Warning
Groundcover is generally planted for easy maintenance; choosing plants that can propagate themselves, are hardy and can thrive in difficult conditions. Such plants, however, can become invasive and difficult to get rid of.
Source:
West Virginia University Extension Service: Ground Covers
Universiy of Illinois Extension: From the Ground Up
Virginia Cooperative Extension: Selecting Landscape Plants: Ground Covers
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