Dichondra Kidney Weed Groundcover Dichondra repens
Dichondra repens Cell Tray of 50 Kidney Weed

Dichondra Kidney Weed

Dichondra repens

Dichondra repens (Kidney Weed, Lawn Leaf, or Mercury Bay Weed)

Dichondra repens is a low-growing, creeping ground cover that is often used as a lawn alternative, between pavers, or as an ornamental ground cover. It has small, round, bright green leaves, spreads quickly, and is soft underfoot, making it a popular choice for shaded or moist areas.

Key Features

  • Scientific Name: Dichondra repens
  • Common Names: Kidney Weed, Lawn Leaf, Mercury Bay Weed
  • Family: Convolvulaceae
  • Native Range: Australia & New Zealand
  • Growth Habit:
    • Low-growing, spreading perennial ground cover
    • Height: Usually stays 2–5 cm tall
    • Spread: Spreads quickly via creeping stems that root at nodes
  • Leaves: Small, kidney-shaped, bright green leaves, forming a dense mat
  • Flowers:
    • Tiny pale green or yellowish flowers, appearing in spring and summer
    • Not very noticeable, grown primarily for foliage
  • Drought & Frost Tolerance: Moderate; prefers moist soil but can survive short dry spells
  • Uses: Lawn alternative, ground cover, between stepping stones, erosion control, hanging baskets

Growing & Care Guide

1. Planting Requirements

✅ Sunlight:

  • Grows best in part shade to full sun
  • Can tolerate full shade, but growth will be slower

✅ Soil:

  • Prefers moist, well-draining soil
  • Tolerates sandy, loamy, or clay soils

✅ pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.5)

✅ Location:

  • Ideal for lawns, garden beds, between pavers, or under trees
  • Works well in hanging baskets and containers

2. Watering & Feeding

💧 Watering:

  • Young plants: Keep soil moist but not soggy until established
  • Mature plants: Water deeply once or twice a week, more in hot weather

🌱 Fertilization:

  • Apply a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer every 6–8 weeks during the growing season
  • Avoid over-fertilizing, as it may lead to excessive growth and maintenance

3. Pruning & Maintenance

✂️ Mowing & Pruning:

  • If grown as a lawn alternative, mow occasionally to maintain a uniform height
  • Trim runners if they spread into unwanted areas

🌿 Mulching:

  • Use organic mulch around new plantings to retain moisture and suppress weeds

4. Pests & Diseases

🐜 Pest Resistance:

  • Generally pest-free, but may occasionally attract aphids or slugs
  • If needed, treat with horticultural soap or organic pest control

🦠 Disease Resistance:

  • Can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly drained soils
  • Fungal diseases (such as leaf spot) may occur in humid conditions—ensure good airflow

5. Propagation

🌱 Easily propagated by division or cuttings:

  • Cuttings: Take small pieces of creeping stems and plant them in moist soil
  • Division: Can be divided into sections and replanted in spring/summer
  • Self-spreading: Roots form along the runners naturally, making it easy to establish

6. Landscaping & Uses

✅ Lawn Alternative: Soft, lush, and low-maintenance replacement for grass
✅ Between Pavers & Stepping Stones: Creeping habit fills gaps beautifully
✅ Erosion Control: Stabilizes slopes and prevents soil erosion
✅ Under Trees & Shady Areas: Grows well where grass struggles
✅ Hanging Baskets & Pots: Trailing stems provide a lush, cascading effect

Why Grow Dichondra repens?

  • Low-maintenance & soft underfoot – great for barefoot walking.
  • Drought-tolerant once established – needs less water than traditional lawns.
  • No mowing required – if used as a ground cover.
  • Grows in shade or sun – versatile for many garden conditions.
  • Attractive, dense green foliage – adds beauty to landscapes.

$3.65 – $121.25 inc. GST

In stock

SKU: Dicrep Categories: , , , , , ,

There is No Limit to how many plants you buy:

Melbourne Metro deliveries cost $44.00.
Expect your delivery to arrive between 1 and 5 business days.

The Mornington Peninsula ** Mt Eliza to Portsea ** and Geelong deliveries cost $66.00.
Expect your delivery to arrive between 1 and 5 business days.

Outer Melbourne deliveries cost $132.00.
Expect your delivery to arrive between 1 and 7 business days.

Regional Victoria deliveries cost between $143.00 – $264.00.
Expect your delivery to arrive between 3 and 7 business days.

Call David Direct on 0427 047 857 to

“GET YOUR PLANTS IN THE VAN!!”

 

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