Dichondra Silver Falls

Dichondra argentea 'Silver Falls', commonly known as Silver Falls Dichondra, is a trailing perennial herb prized for its cascading, silver-gray foliage and trailing habit. Native to arid regions of North America, this ornamental plant is valued for its use as a trailing ground cover in containers, hanging baskets, and garden beds, adding texture and visual interest to Australian landscapes.

Height and Width

• Height: Typically grows to a height of 10 to 15 centimeters.
• Width: Spreads out to form a trailing cascade, reaching lengths of 60 to 90 centimeters or more.

Soil Type

• Soil Preference: Silver Falls Dichondra prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. It is tolerant of poor soil conditions and can thrive in rocky or gravelly soil, as long as it provides good drainage.

Plant Description

• Foliage: The plant features rounded to kidney-shaped leaves that are small, silvery-gray, and densely arranged along trailing stems. The foliage has a velvety texture and reflects light, creating a shimmering effect in the garden. It forms a dense, cascading mat that softens the edges of containers and spills gracefully over walls or rockeries.
• Growth Habit: Silver Falls Dichondra has a trailing, prostrate growth habit, with slender stems that drape gracefully over the edges of containers or spill over garden walls and embankments. It is a fast-growing and vigorous plant that fills in quickly, providing lush ground cover and suppressing weed growth.

Flower Description

• Flowers: Silver Falls Dichondra produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are greenish-white in color and borne on slender stalks above the foliage. The flowers are not particularly showy or ornamental and may go unnoticed amidst the dense foliage.

Cultivation and Care

• Watering: Provide regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, particularly during periods of dry weather or when grown in containers. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry.
• Sunlight: Silver Falls Dichondra prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives in bright, sunny conditions but can tolerate some shade, especially in hot climates or during the afternoon sun.
• Temperature: Silver Falls Dichondra is well-suited to the Australian climate and thrives in warm, sunny conditions. It can tolerate heat and drought once established but may benefit from protection during extreme heatwaves or prolonged dry spells.
• Maintenance: Maintain a neat and tidy appearance by trimming or pinching back the stems as needed to encourage lateral growth and prevent them from becoming too leggy. Avoid overwatering or allowing the soil to become waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot and other problems.
• Fertilising: Apply a balanced, liquid fertiliser diluted to half-strength every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and lush foliage.

Additional Notes

• Pests and Diseases: Silver Falls Dichondra is relatively pest and disease-resistant but may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions. Monitor regularly and treat promptly if issues arise.
• Uses: Ideal for use as a trailing ground cover in containers, hanging baskets, window boxes, and garden beds. Silver Falls Dichondra adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to outdoor spaces, providing cascading foliage and visual interest to patios, balconies, and garden borders.

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