Western Dichondra
dichondra occidentalis
Also known as: ["Kidney Weed","Mermaid Weed"]
Overview
A low-growing, creeping herbaceous plant with kidney-shaped leaves, often used as a ground cover or in hanging baskets.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Genus: | Dichondra |
| Botanical Name: | Dichondra occidentalis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: ground cover in garden beds or hanging baskets
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of foliage at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light, protect from direct midday sun, adjust placement based on season.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); thrives in moderate temperatures, sensitive to extreme heat or cold.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; use a thermometer to monitor; group plants for microclimate benefits.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings root easily in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, place in medium, maintain moisture, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent plants; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, trim leggy stems, shape as desired.
Pruning Plan
Maintain compact growth, encourage bushiness, remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean pruning shears, scissors, or your fingers for small stems.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/leggy growth, shape plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.
Checklist
Choose new pot, prepare soil, inspect roots, position plant, water lightly, place in shade temporarily.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid leaf wetting.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even moisture distribution, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
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 organic matter for fertility, use a cactus mix as base.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, use grow lights if needed.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or browning in temperatures above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, use reflective mulch.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to soil, avoid foliage contact, flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDichondra occidentalis is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicDichondra occidentalis is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicDichondra occidentalis is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for contact and ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Dichondra occidentalis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Can Dichondra occidentalis be grown indoors?
A: It can be grown indoors in hanging baskets or containers, but it prefers outdoor conditions.
Q: How often should Dichondra occidentalis be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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