Carolina Ponyfoot
dichondra carolinensis
Also known as: ["Carolina Ponyfoot","Kidney Weed"]
Overview
A low-growing, creeping herbaceous plant with kidney-shaped leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Genus: | Dichondra |
| Botanical Name: | Dichondra carolinensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: ground cover in garden beds or hanging baskets
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter for fertility.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; major pruning once a year in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching; place in filtered light during peak summer hours; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light cycles.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid placing near west-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C); sensitive to extreme heat or cold.
Monitor temperature changes; use a thermometer to track conditions; adjust care based on seasonal shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer in the morning for better absorption; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing if the plant shows signs of distress.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch stem cutting with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep consistently moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for added aeration.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; ensure the medium stays moist but not waterlogged.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems to encourage branching; trim leggy growth to maintain compactness.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or diseased parts; shape the plant evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter 1–2 inches wider.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for refreshing soil and providing more space.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in response to temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause leaf discoloration, slowed growth, and potential frost damage.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover or move indoors; maintain consistent temperatures above 50°F (10°C); avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, dehydration, and wilting.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for NPK ratio; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDichondra carolinensis is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce known compounds that are harmful to felines when ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicDichondra carolinensis is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce known compounds that are harmful to canines when ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicDichondra carolinensis is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal circumstances. It is generally considered safe for incidental contact and ingestion in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Dichondra carolinensis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How much sunlight does Dichondra carolinensis need?
A: It tolerates both full sun and partial shade.
Q: Can Dichondra carolinensis be grown indoors?
A: It is primarily an outdoor plant but can be grown indoors in a container with adequate light and space.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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