The plant itself determines if it is a "groundcover", as that term only descibes a growth habit, not necessarily making any kind of distinction between a valued ornamental plant or a noxious weed.

While a number of plants with invasive characteristics do work effectively to 'cover the ground', they do so at the expense of natural vegetation or more desireable intentional plantings. It's a personal decision between convenience and ecological responsibility as to whether or not you encourage or allow these types of plants to proliferate. And it is important to understand that their impact is not necessarily limited to just your garden - their ability to spread readily and easily is what classifies them as potential invasives in the first place and you as the homeowner often have little control over their ultimate spread.

Sure do! Creeping Charlie found his way into an area next to the garage where we had to mulch heavily every year to keep down the tall weeds, but they still would ultimately win the battle. I was off my feet for a year with a broken ankle and during that time Charlie proliferated. By the next year the tall weeds were decreasing so I just let Charlie do his thing. Four years later and NO tall weeds at all. I mow up to the line where I want to keep Charlie in check and the area always looks well maintained.

That being said, he also is growing in areas where I do NOT want him. So I guess it is location, location, location!! :-)