Description of Dichondra donnelliana Tharp & M.C. Johnston
Dichondra donnelliana Tharp & M.C. Johnston is a creeping herbaceous perennial plant from the Convolvulaceae family. The plant is native to arid regions in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, specifically in Arizona, Nevada, and Sonora.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Donnell's Dichondra, Donnell's silver dollar, or Donnell's kidney weed.
Appearance
Dichondra donnelliana has a trailing growth habit with trailing stems that can grow up to 4 inches tall and up to 18 inches long. The leaves are circular or kidney-shaped, and are approximately 0.3 inches in diameter. They have a silvery-gray color and a velvety texture. The flowers appear in late spring or early summer and are yellow-green in color, with a diameter of approximately 0.2 inches.
Uses
In horticulture, Dichondra donnelliana is often used as a groundcover to provide a low-maintenance, attractive appearance to gardens and landscaping. Its drought tolerance makes it an ideal plant to grow in xeriscapes. Because of its creeping growth habit, it is an excellent choice for filling in small spaces between stepping stones or in rock gardens. The plant also provides food for pollinators like butterflies and bees.
Medicinally, the plant has been used as a remedy for liver and stomach ailments in traditional Native American medicine. It is known to contain flavonoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Overall, Dichondra donnelliana is an attractive and versatile plant that is easy to grow and maintain, making it an excellent choice for a variety of garden and landscaping applications.
Light Requirements
Dichondra donnelliana requires moderate to high levels of light to thrive. It is a sun-loving plant that grows best in full sun exposure. However, it can survive in partial shade, but it will grow much slower and have a less dense foliage.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Dichondra donnelliana is between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. It cannot tolerate extreme heat or frost. Therefore, it is best suited for warm regions with mild winters. In colder climates, it can be grown as an annual or in containers that can be moved indoors during the colder months.
Soil Requirements
Dichondra donnelliana prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soil. However, it thrives in moist soil that is kept consistently hydrated but not waterlogged. A pH range between 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal for this plant.
Cultivation methods for Dichondra donnelliana
Dichondra donnelliana is a low-growing perennial plant that thrives in warm, moist, and sunny conditions. It is best grown in well-drained soils, and the plant requires good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. If you plan to cultivate Dichondra donnelliana, it is recommendable to start with seedlings or shoots from a healthy plant. You can also propagate using stem cuttings planted in potting soil.
Watering needs for Dichondra donnelliana
Dichondra donnelliana requires adequate amounts of water, but it does not tolerate wet feet. Keep the soil moderately moist but avoid overwatering. During the growing season, water the plants once or twice a week, depending on the soil moisture levels. It is recommendable to water in the morning or early evening when the temperatures are cooler to prevent evaporation.
Fertilization for Dichondra donnelliana
You can fertilize Dichondra donnelliana using a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10. Apply the fertilizer once a month to support healthy growth and development. You can also use organic fertilizers such as compost or well-decomposed manure, which improve the soil structure and add nutrients to the plant.
Pruning for Dichondra donnelliana
Dichondra donnelliana does not require much pruning, but you can pinch or trim back the plant to maintain its shape and promote bushy growth. Use clean, sharp scissors or shears to avoid damaging the plant. You can also remove any yellow or dead leaves to improve the plant's appearance and overall health.
Propagation of Dichondra donnelliana Tharp & M.C. Johnston
Dichondra donnelliana is typically propagated through seeds or cuttings.
Seed Propagation
The plant can be propagated from seeds that are collected from the mature fruit capsules. The fruit capsules should be collected when they are fully matured and dried. Extract the seeds from the fruit capsule and let it dry in the sun for a few days. Once the seeds are completely dry, store them in a cool, dry place until ready to use.
To plant the seeds, sprinkle them over a suitable potting mix and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist and place them in a warm place with good sunlight. The seeds typically germinate between 1-3 weeks.
Cutting Propagation
The plant can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Choose a healthy stem section that is about 2-3 inches long with at least two nodes. Remove the lower leaves from the stem section and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder.
Prepare a suitable potting mix and make a small hole for the cutting. Insert the cutting into the hole and press the soil around it. Keep the soil moist and place them in a warm place with good sunlight. The cuttings typically root within 2-4 weeks and can be transplanted to larger pots or the garden once they have established roots.
Disease and Pest Management for Dichondra donelliana Tharp & M.C. Johnston
Like any other plants, Dichondra donelliana Tharp & M.C. Johnston is also prone to diseases and pests. However, with proper care and management, these problems can be minimized.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Dichondra donelliana is the fungal disease called pythium blight. This disease usually occurs in areas that are poorly drained, and it can quickly kill large sections of the plant. Another fungal disease that often affects Dichondra is rust, which is characterized by yellow or orange spots on the leaves.
Besides fungal diseases, Dichondra can also suffer from bacterial leaf spot, which causes water-soaked spots on the leaves. It is caused by excess water on the leaves and can be prevented by watering the plant from the bottom and improving air circulation.
Pest Management
One of the most common pests that affect Dichondra is the aphid. These tiny insects populate and feed on the undersides of leaves, causing them to yellow and curl. To manage an aphid infestation, use a strong stream of water to dislodge the pests and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Dichondra can also be affected by spider mites and whiteflies. Spider mites, which are more common during hot and dry weather, can be managed by spraying the plant with water to improve humidity and applying insecticidal soap. Whiteflies, which are small and white flying insects, can be controlled by releasing natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.
It is essential to monitor the plant regularly to prevent and manage diseases and pests. Keeping the plant healthy and watering from the bottom to prevent excess moisture on the leaves can also help minimize these problems.
