How to Grow Silver Dichondra
iNaturalist
Silver Dichondra
Dichondra argentea
vineSilver Dichondra is a trailing groundcover and ornamental vine prized for its delicate, silver-gray, heart-shaped foliage. It creates a shimmering cascade effect in hanging baskets, containers, and as a groundcover, adding textural interest to landscapes and gardens. The plant is grown primarily for its attractive foliage rather than flowers, which are inconspicuous.
When should you plant Silver Dichondra in your zone?
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Example Silver Dichondra timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Silver Dichondra
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Silver Dichondra
Around May 17≈ 30 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Silver Dichondra dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9b-11; grown as an annual in cooler zones
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Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny heart-shaped leaves emerge with silvery tones; very delicate and small initially
Keep soil consistently moist; provide bright, indirect light; avoid overwatering which causes damping off; maintain warm temperatures (70-75°F)
Vegetative Growth
3-5 weeksPlant develops more foliage; trailing stems begin to lengthen; leaves develop full silvery-gray coloration and heart shape
Maintain consistent moisture; apply balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks; pinch back tips to encourage bushiness; ensure good air circulation
Trailing/Sprawling
4-8 weeks onwardsStems cascade and spread; full silvery foliage is prominent; plant reaches mature size and cascading habit
Water regularly but allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; feed monthly with balanced or dilute fertilizer; deadhead any flowers if desired for foliage focus
Flowering
Intermittent throughout growing seasonTiny, inconspicuous white or pale flowers may appear along stems; flowers are minor feature compared to foliage
Flowers require no special care; continue regular watering and maintenance; flowering does not significantly stress the plant
Decline/Cold Dormancy
Variable depending on zoneIn cooler zones, foliage fades and plant declines with frost; in warm zones, plant persists year-round
In cool climates, treat as annual and compost after frost; in warm zones, reduce watering and fertilizing during winter; trim back if leggy in spring
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; increase air circulation; remove infested growth if severe
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Isolate plant; treat with neem oil or rubbing alcohol on cotton swabs; repeat weekly as needed
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Increase humidity; spray with water; use insecticidal soap or neem oil; ensure adequate moisture in soil and air
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap; increase air circulation
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Ensure well-draining soil; do not overwater; remove affected portions; improve drainage and air circulation
Uses
Ornamental Foliage & Cascading Containers
OrnamentalSilver Dichondra is widely used in hanging baskets, window boxes, and mixed container plantings where its silvery, heart-shaped leaves create a shimmering, delicate waterfall effect. Its fine texture and metallic appearance complement darker-colored flowering plants and add visual interest to patios and porches. [source]
Indoor Houseplant
HouseholdWhen grown indoors in bright, indirect light, Silver Dichondra makes an attractive trailing houseplant for shelves, mantels, and hanging planters. It adds a soft, silvery accent to indoor décor year-round in cooler climates. [source]
Groundcover & Landscape Design
HouseholdIn warm zones (9b-11), Silver Dichondra can be used as a delicate groundcover in shade gardens, along pathways, or cascading over walls and raised beds. Its soft appearance works well in contemporary and cottage garden designs. [source]
Floral Arrangements & Wedding Décor
CraftThe graceful, silvery trailing stems are popular in floral arrangements, bridal bouquets, and event decorations. The delicate foliage adds texture and an ethereal quality to fresh and dried arrangements. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeWhile flowers are inconspicuous, the small white blooms provide nectar for small insects and beneficial pollinators. The plant's dense foliage also offers shelter for beneficial insects. [source]
Harvest Tips
Silver Dichondra is not typically harvested; instead, enjoy it as living foliage throughout the season. Pinch back stems regularly to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or diseased foliage promptly. In warm zones, prune back in late winter or early spring to rejuvenate the plant.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The genus Dichondra includes about 13 species, but only a few are commonly cultivated; Dichondra argentea is specifically prized for its silvery-gray foliage, which becomes more prominent and luminous in partial shade.
- 🌱 The name 'argentea' comes from the Latin word 'argentum' (silver), directly referencing the plant's distinctive shimmering, metallic leaf color.
- 🌱 Silver Dichondra is non-toxic to pets and humans, making it a safe ornamental choice for households with cats, dogs, and children; however, it is grown purely for ornamental foliage and is not typically used for medicinal or culinary purposes.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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