Dichondra (Dichondra repens)

A beautiful native groundcover plant, Dichondra is ideal for most locations. It has the unflattering common name of kidney weed, which describes the shape of the small green leaves.

Dichondra is cultivated for its lush carpet of small, green, kidney or heart-shaped leaves, making it a great alternative to a traditional grassy lawn. This versatile plant also plays a practical role by protecting the soil from erosion, preventing moisture loss, reducing weeds, and acting as a natural mulch. There are varieties with silver leaves that trail elegantly over the edges of steps, walls, or containers, including hanging baskets. The silver foliage provides a lovely contrast to brightly colored leaf plants.

You can plant this throughout the year, but be sure to keep the soil well-watered during dry periods. To promote dense growth, space the plants at least 30 cm apart and provide liquid feed in spring and summer. These plants can be grown in various locations, such as between pavers, in hanging baskets, troughs, and window boxes. They typically grow to a height of 10-15 cm and can spread 1-2 m across. Dichondra spreads by suckering and can be divided for propagation

There are a few varieties of Dichondra to choose from, depending on your garden’s colour palette and use. Consider one of these options.

• Dichondra repens is the most common variety with its small, round green leaves with a strong peppermint smell. They are ideal to fill in gaps in the garden or between pavers in a pathway.
• Dichondra ‘Shades sensation’ is a groundcover known for its tolerance to shady conditions and for creating a dense, soft mat of green foliage. It can thrive in shady conditions when other grasses or groundcovers may fail. It is a low-maintenance option once established.
• Dichondra argentea ‘Silver Fall’ can trail more than one metre out of a hanging basket or over a retaining wall with its striking oval-shaped grey leaves. It prefers a sunny position in well-drained soils.

Growing conditions

Aspect Partially shaded to sunny location. It’s known for its ability to thrive in various light conditions, making it a versatile choice for different areas in a garden.

Soil These plants need moist but well-drained soils. While it can tolerate various soil types, including clay, loam, sandy loam, clay loam, and even poor soil, good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. Before planting, add home-made compost and organic matter and/or Seasol Super Compost. If planting into a pot or hanging basket, use a premium potting mix such as Seasol Advanced Potting Mix.

Climate Dichondra thrives in a variety of climates; however, it is best suited to cool to warm temperate climates. Plants are native to eastern Australia.

General care

Watering Water regularly or more frequently if conditions are hot, dry or windy. It’s important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent overwatering and potential root rot.

Feeding and mulching Dichondra respond with strong growth to a liquid feed with a fertiliser for native plants, such as PowerFeed All Purpose including Natives.  They also benefit from the seasonal application of a granular fertiliser during the year. Apply Seasol Plus Nutrients All Purpose including  Natives, during the growing season.

Pruning  It is a low-maintenance groundcover that typically requires minimal pruning. However, a light trim every 6 to 8 weeks can keep them looking neat and healthy. Overgrown or leggy stems can also be pruned to encourage new growth. 

Watch out Dichondra has a few pests or disease problems. Watch out for fungal diseases and root rot if the soil becomes waterlogged, so proper watering and drainage are crucial. If you find snails and slugs eating juicy young foliage, remove them by hand or use an organic barrier such as coffee grounds or eggshells. A beer trap is also another useful alternative.