Dichondra argentea
Dichondra argentea
Silver Ponysfoot
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Taxonomy
Family Convolvulaceae · Genus Dichondra
Description
Dichondra argentea, widely sold as ‘Silver Falls,’ is a shimmering, silver-leaved trailer perfect for spilling from pots or carpeting sunny edges. Heat- and drought-tolerant, it’s fast-growing and low-maintenance, prized for its soft, cascading foliage rather than flowers.
Common Names
Silver PonysfootSilver Falls DichondraTrailing DichondraSilver Dichondra
Context
nativeRegion
Southwestern United States (notably Texas) and northern Mexico, in arid to semi-arid habitats.
usdaZones
9–11 perennial (grown as an annual in cooler zones).
companionPlants
Calibrachoa, Petunia, Lantana, Verbena, Sedum, Portulaca, Euphorbia 'Diamond Frost', Dusty Miller, Blue Fescue, Succulents and Cacti
culturalUses
Popular as a cascading accent in hanging baskets and containers, edging and groundcover in xeriscapes, and for reflective silver foliage in modern or coastal designs.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun to bright light; best silver color and dense growth in full sun. Tolerates light shade.
WateringWater thoroughly, then let the top 1–2 inches of soil dry. Drought-tolerant once established; avoid soggy conditions.
SoilVery well-draining mix; sandy or gritty loam. In containers, use cactus/succulent mix or potting soil amended with perlite.
FertilizerLight feeder. Apply a balanced diluted fertilizer monthly in spring–summer or a slow-release granule at planting.
HumidityAverage to low humidity; good airflow preferred. Avoid prolonged leaf wetness.
TemperatureWarmth-loving. Ideal 65–85°F (18–29°C). Not frost-hardy; protect below ~50°F (10°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitTrailing, creeping groundcover; cascading stems that root at nodes.
Mature SizeHeight 2–4 in (5–10 cm) as a mat; trailing/cascading 2–6 ft (0.6–1.8 m) or more.
Growth RateFast in warm, bright conditions.
BloomingSmall, inconspicuous greenish flowers in late spring to summer; grown primarily for foliage.
DormancyWarm-season perennial; growth slows in cool weather. Top growth may die back with frost.
Propagation
MethodsStem cuttings, Division of rooted runners, Seed, Layering (allow stolons to root, then separate)
DifficultyEasy
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningShear or pinch to thicken and rejuvenate; trim stragglers as needed. Cut back hard in spring for fresh growth.
RepottingRepot every 1–2 years or when rootbound; use a wide, shallow container with excellent drainage.
Pests & DiseasesGenerally tough. Watch for aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs in containers. Overwatering leads to root rot; ensure sharp drainage and airflow.
ToxicityGenerally considered non-toxic to pets and humans.
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