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Dichondra repens

Posted Fri, 07/05/2010 - 10:42 by locust
Common Names: 
Kidney Weed

A vigorous rhizomatous groundcover plant. The leaves are a rounded kidney shape and are produced on the end of stalks to about 10 cm high. The species may be mistaken for Centella, Centella cordifolia. Centella can be distinguished by its slightly scalloped leaf edge. Where the stem joins the leaf of Centella, it resembles pie where a wedge has been removed. The gap in Dichondra is more rounded

Ecology: 

The low cover seems to be a favourite shelter for Garden Skinks (Lampropholis guichenoti) in my garden.

Revegetation: 

This species may provide a valuable element to groundstorey plant combinations, filling intertussock spaces and leaving little room for weed germination.

Gardening Hints: 

Provides a very effective groundcover that will suppress weed germination. It will also suppress germination of indigenous plants so use it sparingly in areas where this is desired. It is able to tolerate foot traffic and is an excellent choice close to narrow paths where overhanging vegetation is undesirable

Propagation: 

Propagate from division of plants. Dichondra puts out roots along the rhizome. Divide into pieces of 4-5 cm, with roots and leaves attached, and pot up. Very easy plant to propagate.