1. Perennial in Zone 5

2. Something that doesn't flower too brightly at any time. (For example, I don't want bright pink phlox to cover the whole slope)

3. Must take full sun (there is almost no shade available here)

4. Moderate to fast growth

5. I would prefer something that was evergreen and am interested in something that has a nice fall tinge to it.

6. Minimal maintenance.

Here is what I am looking at:

1. Purple wintercreeper : I like the quickness that it covers areas but am concerned that the purple/red will be far too bright in the fall and winter. I was thinking of putting some conifers interspersed but am not sure if the wintercreeper is too aggressive even for ths.

2. Ceratostigma plumbaginnoides/leadwort : I love the fall color on these and the blue seems muted enough. I've heard mixed reviews about whether this is actually hardy to Zone 5.

3. Vinca Minor : I like that it is evergreen, however, again I am concerned about the hardiness in zone 5.

I've also looked into various types of Ivy but do want something a little more interesting. Also, a monster of a plant is not a problem here. It is not connected to other flower beds. It will border the lawn but we can easily maintain that or put up a small border for containment.

Thank you!!

2. Leadwort is not evergreen, the blue is rather intense and yes, it IS of doubtful hardiness for you.

3. Vinca needs at least part shade. But should be hardy.

I'd consider ajuga, cotoneaster or juniper. All are tough, durable plants hardy enough for your zone. Different ajuga varieties are available with colored foliage and most will have attractive blue flowers. Cotoneaster comes in both deciduous and evergreen forms, spreads rapidly and produces berries. Some cultivars do develop fall/winter color. Junipers don't do much other than cover the ground but they are excellent for sunny slopes and extremly low maintenance and drought tolerant once established. Just make sure you select true groundcover forms, like Juniperus horizontalis, as many others will grow far too tall and leggy. They do come in a range of foliar colors as well, from mint green to blue to golden yellow.