Asian Ponysfoot, scientifically known as Dichondra repens, offers an appealing alternative for gardeners seeking a low-growing, verdant groundcover. This plant creates a lush, carpet-like appearance, especially where traditional turf grasses struggle. This guide provides insights into cultivating and maintaining Asian Ponysfoot for a thriving landscape.
What is Asian Ponysfoot?
Asian Ponysfoot (Dichondra repens) is a perennial herb recognized for its distinctive foliage. It is also commonly referred to as kidney weed or lawn leaf due to its leaf shape and use as a lawn substitute. Native to Australia and New Zealand, it can also be found in the Americas and Asia.
The plant is characterized by its small, kidney-shaped or circular leaves. Dichondra repens is a member of the morning glory family, cultivated for its attractive foliage rather than its inconspicuous flowers. It spreads effectively, making it a desirable option for covering ground.
Appearance, Growth Habits, and Common Uses
Asian Ponysfoot forms a dense, attractive mat of foliage, typically reaching a height of only 2 inches. Its leaves are small, usually between 1/2 to 1 inch in diameter, and display a bright green color. The plant’s creeping, stoloniferous growth habit means its stems spread horizontally and root wherever nodes touch the soil, allowing it to cover areas quickly.
It is frequently used as a lawn substitute, particularly where traditional grass might not flourish. Its dense growth helps suppress weeds and prevents soil erosion. Beyond being a lawn alternative, Asian Ponysfoot serves as a groundcover for shaded or difficult-to-grow areas, between pavers, or in rock gardens, adding a soft, uniform green aesthetic. Its cascading nature also makes it suitable for hanging baskets or containers.
Optimal Growing Conditions
Asian Ponysfoot prefers partial shade to filtered sun, tolerating full sun in cooler climates or if protected from intense afternoon heat. In warmer regions, afternoon shade prevents scorching. It grows best in well-draining soil rich in organic matter.
While it tolerates various soil types, including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, good drainage prevents root rot. An ideal soil pH for Dichondra repens ranges from slightly acidic to neutral (5.5 to 7.5). Consistent moisture is preferred, but the soil should not remain waterlogged. When preparing a planting site, loosening the soil to about 6 inches deep and incorporating compost or other organic material improves drainage and fertility.
Care and Maintenance
Once established, Asian Ponysfoot is a low-maintenance groundcover. Watering should be deep and infrequent, allowing the top layer of soil to dry out slightly between sessions to prevent fungal issues. During dry periods or warmer months, more frequent watering (every 5-10 days) may be necessary to maintain consistent moisture.
Regarding fertilization, Dichondra repens requires little supplemental feeding as it thrives in low-nutrient soils. If desired, a slow-release, all-purpose fertilizer can be applied in spring as new growth appears, or twice a year in spring and autumn. Pruning is not always necessary, but the plant can be mowed to about 1.5 to 2 inches high every few weeks during summer to maintain a neat appearance, especially when used as a lawn alternative. Asian Ponysfoot resists most pests and diseases, but occasional issues like aphids, cutworms, flea beetles, or root rot from overwatering may occur.
Important Considerations Before Planting
Before planting Asian Ponysfoot, consider its vigorous spreading habit. While this characteristic makes it an excellent groundcover, it can become invasive or compete with other plants in certain climates. Regular trimming or mowing helps manage its spread.
This plant is hardy in USDA Zones 7 through 11, tolerating temperatures as low as 20-25 degrees Fahrenheit. It is a warm-season perennial that maintains its green color in mild winters. Asian Ponysfoot tolerates only light foot traffic, making it best suited for low-traffic areas rather than heavily used lawns. For areas with heavy foot traffic, alternative groundcovers that withstand more wear are a better choice.