Dichondra Argentea

Description

Dichondra Argentea, also known as silver ponyfoot, is a trailing perennial herb that belongs to the morning glory family Convolvulaceae. This plant is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States, but it has become a popular ornamental groundcover in various parts of the world. It produces small, silver-colored leaves and tiny, yellowish-green flowers. Dichondra Argentea is a low-maintenance plant that can add a touch of elegance to any garden or landscape.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Dichondra Argentea features small, round leaves that are about 1 to 2 centimeters in diameter. These leaves are silver-colored and have a soft, velvety texture. The plant produces tiny, yellowish-green flowers that bloom in the summer. Dichondra Argentea is a trailing plant that can grow up to 4 inches in height and 2 feet in width. It has a spreading habit and can quickly cover the ground with its lush foliage.

Care Guide

Water: Dichondra Argentea prefers moist soil but can tolerate short periods of drought. Water the plant regularly, but make sure not to overwater it as this can cause root rot.Fertilization: Dichondra Argentea is a light feeder and does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: This plant prefers well-draining, loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.Sunlight: Dichondra Argentea thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but its foliage may become less dense.Hardiness Zones: Dichondra Argentea is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Dichondra Argentea is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Aphids and spider mites may infest the plant, but these can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Powdery mildew may also occur, but this can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant.

Habitat

Dichondra Argentea is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States, where it grows in rocky or sandy soil. It prefers warm, dry climates and can tolerate drought conditions. In its native range, Dichondra Argentea is often found growing in open fields, along roadsides, or in rocky outcrops.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Dichondra Argentea a good groundcover?
A: Yes, Dichondra Argentea is an excellent groundcover due to its spreading habit and lush foliage.Q: Can Dichondra Argentea be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Dichondra Argentea can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s spreading habit.Q: How often should I fertilize Dichondra Argentea?
A: Apply a slow-release fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Q: Is Dichondra Argentea invasive?
A: No, Dichondra Argentea is not considered invasive. However, it may self-seed and spread rapidly in ideal growing conditions.

Related Plants

• Dichondra Micrantha
• Dichondra Repens
• Dichondra Silver Falls

References

• “Dichondra Argentea.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276595 (accessed July 19, 2021).
• “Dichondra Argentea.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/ornamentals/nativeshrubs/dichondraargentea.htm (accessed July 19, 2021).
• “Silver Ponyfoot.” Arizona State University. https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapai/anr/hort/byg/archive/SilverPonyfoot.html (accessed July 19, 2021).