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Description
Dichondra Brevifolia, also known as the Silver Ponyfoot, is a small creeping perennial plant in the Morning Glory family. This plant is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, and it is commonly used as a ground cover in landscaping. It has a prostrate growth habit, with stems that can grow up to 2-3 feet long. The leaves are small, rounded, and silver-green in color, which gives the plant its common name.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Convolvulaceae |
| Genus | Dichondra |
Appearance
Dichondra Brevifolia has small, rounded leaves that are silver-green in color. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stem, and they are attached to the stem by a long petiole. The stem is prostrate and can grow up to 2-3 feet long. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are greenish-white in color. The flowers are followed by small, round fruits that contain two seeds each.
Care Guide
Dichondra Brevifolia is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: This plant prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate some drought. Water deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter.- Fertilization: This plant does not require regular fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer once in the spring if desired.- Soil: Dichondra Brevifolia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, but it does not tolerate heavy clay soils.- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, it should be grown in partial shade to avoid leaf scorch.- Hardiness Zones: Dichondra Brevifolia is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dichondra Brevifolia is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be affected by the following pests and diseases:- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to wilt and curl. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. Use a miticide to control spider mites.- Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soil. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Dichondra Brevifolia is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. It grows in a variety of habitats, including rocky slopes, open woodlands, and desert washes. It is commonly used as a ground cover in landscaping due to its low-growing habit and attractive silver-green foliage.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dichondra Brevifolia be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Dichondra Brevifolia can be grown indoors as a houseplant. It prefers bright, indirect light and moist soil.
Q: Is Dichondra Brevifolia toxic to pets?
A: No, Dichondra Brevifolia is not toxic to pets. However, it is always a good idea to monitor your pets around plants to ensure they do not ingest them.
Q: How often should I fertilize Dichondra Brevifolia?
A: Dichondra Brevifolia does not require regular fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer once in the spring if desired.
Q: How can I propagate Dichondra Brevifolia?
A: Dichondra Brevifolia can be propagated by stem cuttings or by division. Take stem cuttings in the spring or summer and root them in moist soil. To divide the plant, dig up the clump and separate the stems, then replant in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
– Dichondra Micrantha- Dichondra Repens- Dichondra Silver Falls
References
– “Dichondra Brevifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 18 Nov. 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b912- “Silver ponyfoot.” University of Florida. Accessed 18 Nov. 2021. https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/silver-ponyfoot.html
