Lawn leaf - Dichondra repens (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Lawn leaf

Also known as: Mercury bay weed, Kidney grass, Dichondra pony foot

Lawn leaf (Dichondra repens) is a low-growing, creeping perennial herb with characteristic kidney-shaped leaves. It doesn't have a flowering season: the small yellowish-green flowers may appear at any time of the year. It is native to Australia and New Zealand but has been introduced in other parts of the world, including the western U.S. and China.

Scientific classification

Species

Lawn leaf (Dichondra repens)

Nightshades, bindweeds, gooseweeds, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

10 cm

Plant Height

1 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Lawn leaf

Distribution of Lawn leaf

Distribution Map

Lawn leaf is a plant native to temperate regions of the southern hemisphere. It has been successfully introduced and cultivated in various other temperate zones around the world. Adaptable to a range of garden settings, lawn leaf thrives in both its native lands and as an ornamental ground cover in non-native regions within similar climates.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forest, woodland, grassland

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Lawn leaf

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Lawn leaf thrives in moist, shaded environments, requiring consistent hydration and evenly moist soil. It should be watered weekly to maintain optimal moisture without waterlogging. As an evergreen plant, lawn leaf benefits from natural rainfall in outdoor settings, helping to meet its hydration needs.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, lawn leaf requires balanced nutrition through a granular, slow-release fertilizer with equal NPK ratios applied quarterly. Increase frequency during spring and summer, and water thoroughly post-fertilization. Introduce fertilizers gradually to young lawn leaf to enhance tolerance and effectiveness while avoiding over-fertilization.

Pruning: Lawn leaf is a low-growing ground cover with small green leaves. Prune lightly in early to late spring to manage spread, remove dead foliage, and improve sunlight penetration. Regular maintenance enhances resilience and minimizes disease risks. Use clean, sharp tools to prevent stress and infections.

Propagation: Lawn leaf is an ideal ground cover with a creeping habit and small, round leaves, effective for forming dense mats. Propagation involves lightly covering seeds with soil and keeping it moist. A well-draining soil mix and thinning seedlings promote healthy growth.

Repotting: Repot 'lawn leaf' every 2-3 years, ideally in spring, using a slightly larger wide container for its spreading habit. Employ well-draining soil and maintain consistent moisture without overwatering. After repotting, place 'lawn leaf' in indirect light for recovery before gradually returning it to its usual environment.

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