Dichondra

Dichondra repens

Dichondra is a perennial broadleaf weed that is also referred to as Carolina Dichondra, Ponyfoot, Carolina Ponyfoot or its scientific name, Dichondra repens.

Identify

Alternate

Creeping

Entire

Reniform

Dichondra can be identified by the shape of its leaves that resemble a pony's foot. These leaves grow alternate from each other and are sparsely hairy and kidney-shaped with round, continuous, untoothed margins and long petioles. In solid stands, this broadleaf weed makes a pleasing but rather delicate lawn. Dichondra flowers mainly in spring, producing inconspicuous white flowers with five petals. Dichondra has little ability to withstand freezing temperatures.

Life Cycle

This broadleaf weed thrives in warm, tropical areas, preferring the moisture to wettness. Dichondra is an extremely common lawn weed, though it is often planted intentionally as groundcover. It can be found in warm, moist areas of the United States, especially along the Southeast, Gulf and West coasts.

Control

This weed is popular as a ground cover because it is able to withstand low lawn-mowing heights, forming a carpet-like blanket over the ground. When unwanted, Dichondra repens can be tough to remove with cultural control methods, such as proper mowing and watering routines. Professionally applied broadleaf weed killers are the best bet for removal.