Dichondra is often sought after as a dense, low-maintenance lawn substitute or ground cover. It is characterized by small, rounded, kidney-shaped leaves that form a lush carpet. Its spreading habit makes it popular for filling spaces between pavers. The plant’s classification as a perennial or an annual depends entirely on the local climate conditions.
Defining Dichondra’s Nature
Dichondra belongs to the genus Dichondra; the species commonly used as a turf alternative is Dichondra micrantha. Botanically, it is classified as a herbaceous perennial, meaning it is programmed to live for more than two growing seasons. It has a creeping growth habit, spreading horizontally through stolons that root easily at the nodes. This allows it to form a thick, uniform mat.
An annual plant completes its entire life cycle within a single growing season. Due to its tender nature, Dichondra often fails to survive winter in colder regions, forcing gardeners to treat it as a seasonal planting. While fundamentally a perennial, it functions as an annual in many geographical areas where it must be replanted seasonally. The bright green leaves typically reach a height of about two to four inches.
The Climate Factor
Dichondra is a tender perennial, thriving in warm climates but unable to tolerate cold temperatures. Its year-round survival requires the absence of prolonged, deep freezing in winter. In warmer regions, specifically USDA Hardiness Zones 10 and 11, Dichondra remains green and actively grows throughout the year. Here, it functions as a reliable, permanent ground cover.
In colder climates, such as USDA Zones 7 or below, hard frosts typically kill the plant’s root system. Gardeners must sow new seeds or plant new starts each spring, treating Dichondra as a seasonal annual. Although it grows vigorously during the summer, it will not survive to return the following year. In transitional zones, the plant may experience semi-dormancy or partial dieback if temperatures drop near freezing. It can retain its bright green color in temperatures as low as 25°F before suffering significant damage.
Cultivation and Care
Successful establishment requires planting when soil temperatures are reliably warm, ideally with daytime air temperatures in the 70s and nighttime temperatures above 50°F. Dichondra can be started from seed, which should be lightly scattered over a prepared, weed-free seedbed. The seeds require light for germination and will sprout within approximately two weeks if kept consistently moist.
This ground cover prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade, though growth will be less dense in shadier spots. Consistent moisture is necessary for the plant to thrive and spread, especially during establishment. Established Dichondra is somewhat drought-tolerant and requires well-draining soil. Waterlogged conditions can lead to fungal issues or root rot.
As a lawn alternative, Dichondra is low-maintenance and generally does not require frequent mowing. It can be cut to a height of one to two inches to encourage denser growth. Fertilization with a nitrogen-rich product is beneficial during the active growing season to maintain a lush appearance. Gardeners must exercise caution with weed control, as Dichondra is sensitive to certain herbicides, particularly those containing 2-4D.