Dichondra repens (kidney weed)

Two native species of Dichondra occur in New Zealand:

• Dichondra breviolifa is native and endemic.

• Dichondra repens is native, but also found in some other countries.

Both of the native species occur in lawns - either self-introduced, or deliberately grown there. They are naturally species of open habitats, and their low-growing nature makes them compatible with mowing. Their drought tolerance also means they can be used for green roofs.

Both of these species are small, creeping perennial herbs that root at the nodes - which enables them to quite quickly cover a large area. Their flowers are inconspicuous, being both small and greeny-yellow.

In our garden we are using Dichondra repens as a ground cover, but without any mowing. In open sites the plants have formed a thick, dense mat. In a shadier spot the cover is not quite so dense and the leaves are generally larger and a darker green.

References:

Allan HH (1961) Flora of New Zealand, Volume I. Government Printer.

Ignatieva M, Meurk C, van Roon M, Simcock R, Stewart G (2008) How to put nature into our neighbourhoods: application of Low Impact Design and Developments (LIUDD) principles, with a biodiversity focus, for New Zealand developers and homeowners. Manaaki Whenua Press.

Webb C, Sykes W, Garnock-Jones P (1988) Flora of New Zealand. Vol IV. Naturalised pteridophytes, gymnosperms, dicotyledons. Botany Divisn, D.S.I.R.