Dichondra

Dichondra carolinenses

 

Dichondra is a warm-season perennial ground cover, best adapted for cool coastal conditions. It will grow in partial shade, but does best in full sun. Because dichondra does not tolerate heavy traffic, it is best adapted for small areas rather than large lawns or where mowing is difficult. Broadleaf weed invasions are common and can be difficult to manage.

 

Dichondra is not a grass, but a low-growing broadleaf ground cover. High maintenance for water and fertilizer. Dichondra requires well-drained soil and has a high nitrogen requirement. It has a low tolerance for salinity, drought, and very cold temperatures but tolerates some heat. Mowing is a matter of personal preference; it may either be mowed or remain unmown. Dichondra recovers only partially from moderate wear.

 

Dichondra spreads by slender creeping stems that root at the nodes. It forms mats not over 1½ to 3 inches tall. The kidney-shaped to nearly circular leaves grow alternate to each other, sometimes appearing whorled on the stems. The white to greenish small flowers are borne in clusters in the leaf axils below the level of the leaf.

 

Perennial broadleaf turf weeds are capable of living more than two years. They thrive in weak, thin turf; home lawns, playfields, and industrial grounds. Proper turf maintenance is the key to control of this weed.  Dichondra can be hand removed or hoed. 

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