Asian Ponysfoot: A Tiny Ground Cover with Big Potential
If you’re looking for a ground cover that can handle foot traffic and doesn’t mind being stepped on, Asian ponysfoot (Dichondra micrantha) might just be the plant for you. This small but mighty perennial has been quietly making its way into gardens across warmer regions of the United States, offering an alternative to traditional lawn grass in certain situations.
What Exactly Is Asian Ponysfoot?
Asian ponysfoot is a low-growing perennial forb – essentially a non-woody plant that hugs the ground and spreads outward. Don’t let the forb classification intimidate you; it simply means this plant lacks significant woody tissue and keeps its growing points at or below ground level, making it naturally suited for ground cover duties.
The plant gets its common name from its small, kidney-shaped leaves that some say resemble tiny horse hooves. These adorable little leaves create a dense, carpet-like mat that rarely grows taller than a few inches.
Where Does It Come From and Where Does It Grow?
Originally native to Asia, Asian ponysfoot has established itself as a non-native species that reproduces freely in the wild across several U.S. states. You’ll find it growing in Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Texas, and Puerto Rico, where it has adapted well to local conditions.
Why You Might Want to Plant It
Asian ponysfoot offers several appealing qualities for the right garden situation:
- Traffic tolerance: Unlike many ground covers, this plant can handle occasional foot traffic without completely giving up
- Low maintenance: Once established, it’s relatively fuss-free
- Dense coverage: Creates a thick mat that can help suppress weeds
- Adaptable: Works well in containers, rock gardens, or between stepping stones
- Year-round interest: As a perennial, it provides consistent coverage in suitable climates
Growing Conditions and Care
Asian ponysfoot thrives in USDA hardiness zones 8-11, making it suitable for warmer climates. Here’s what it needs to be happy:
- Light: Partial shade to full sun, though it appreciates some protection from intense afternoon sun
- Soil: Well-draining soil that stays consistently moist but not waterlogged
- Water: Regular watering is key – this plant doesn’t like to dry out completely
- Space: Give it room to spread, as it naturally expands via underground runners (stolons)
Planting and Establishment Tips
Getting Asian ponysfoot established is generally straightforward:
- Plant in spring after the last frost date
- Space plants about 6-12 inches apart for quicker coverage
- Keep soil consistently moist during establishment
- Be patient – it may take a full growing season to form a dense mat
- Light mowing or trimming can help maintain a tidy appearance
Considerations Before Planting
While Asian ponysfoot can be a useful plant, it’s important to note that it’s not native to North America. If you’re focused on supporting native ecosystems, you might want to consider native alternatives that provide similar ground cover benefits while supporting local wildlife.
The plant produces tiny, inconspicuous white flowers, but these offer minimal benefits to pollinators compared to native flowering ground covers. If supporting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects is a priority, native options will serve your garden ecosystem better.
Is Asian Ponysfoot Right for Your Garden?
Asian ponysfoot works best in specific situations rather than as a large-scale ground cover. Consider it for:
- Small spaces between stepping stones or pavers
- Container gardens where you want a trailing effect
- Rock gardens that need a soft, low element
- Areas where traditional lawn grass struggles
If you’re planning a large-scale ground cover project or want to maximize benefits for native wildlife, exploring native alternatives might be worth your time. Many regions have native plants that can provide similar coverage while supporting local ecosystems.
Whatever you choose, remember that the best ground cover is the one that thrives in your specific conditions while meeting your garden’s needs. Asian ponysfoot might just be that perfect fit for the right spot in your landscape.
