California Ponysfoot Dichondra

California Ponysfoot (Dichondra donelliana) is a charming and versatile California native groundcover that is perfect for coastal and woodland-style gardens. This evergreen perennial forms a low, creeping mat of soft, kidney-shaped (or "ponyfoot") leaves in a lovely shade of medium green. It spreads gracefully via stolons, creating a lush, carpet-like effect that conforms to the shape of rocks and terrain.

As a resilient member of the Dichondra genus, this native species is more drought-tolerant and rugged than the common lawn variety. It is an excellent "living mulch" for understory plantings or as a soft, trailing accent in native mixed containers. It thrives in the dappled light of oak woodlands but can also handle sun along the coast. Why you’ll love it: Soft, emerald-green native foliage, excellent weed suppression, and a low-profile habit that adds a finished, lush look to native landscapes.

This healthy 4" live plant thrives in full sun near the coast to partial shade inland and prefers well-drained soil.