Dichondra carolinensis
Carolina Pony's-Foot · Carolina ponysfoot · Grass ponysfoot · Carolina dichondra · Ponyfoot
Description
Source: leafsnapDichondra carolinensis, commonly known as Carolina pony's foot or dichondra, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the Convolvulaceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States and thrives in wetlands, meadows, and along stream banks. This plant has a creeping growth habit, with stems that can extend up to 2 meters in length. Its small, circular leaves are bright green, making it an attractive ground cover option for lawns and gardens. From May through September, Dichondra carolinensis produces small white flowers, which are followed by tiny fruit capsules containing seeds for reproduction. While this plant prefers moist soil, it can tolerate some drought once established. It is also relatively low-maintenance, as it does not require frequent mowing or fertilization. In addition to its ornamental value, Dichondra carolinensis has been used medicinally by Native Americans for its anti-inflammatory properties and as an herbal remedy for various ailments, such as skin irritations and respiratory issues. Overall, Dichondra carolinensis is a versatile plant with both aesthetic appeal and potential medicinal benefits, making it an excellent addition to any garden or landscape design project.
🌳 Carolina ponyfoot is a versatile plant that works well in various types of gardens. It can be used as a lawn substitute or as an accent plant alongside other species. When used in place of traditional lawn grass, it can tolerate mowing to maintain a short height. Additionally, it's popular as an accent plant to fill spaces between stepping stones on garden paths.
Care Guide
💧 Water
☀️ Light Partial sun
🌡️ Temperature 10–37.8°C
💨 Humidity
🪴 Soil 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer
🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity
Characteristics
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Dichondra
- Family
- Convolvulaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 6-11
- Mature Height
- 3 cm to 5 cm
- Mature Spread
- 30 cm to 61 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Blue
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- White
- Flower Size
- 0.20 cm to 0.25 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Early summer, Mid summer
- Native Area
- Bahamas