Plant File

Climbers + Ground Cover

Kidney weed

Kidney weed (Dichondra repens) is a low-growing native plant has a subtle beauty and practicality. With its soft, kidney-shaped leaves and gentle spreading habit, kidney weed offers a natural alternative to traditional lawns and high-maintenance groundcovers—especially in spaces where simplicity and sustainability matter.

Kidney weed is most commonly used as a groundcover. It forms a dense, green mat that works well between stepping stones, along garden paths, under trees, and in areas where grass struggles to grow. Its soft texture makes it pleasant underfoot, and while it’s not a heavy-traffic plant, it tolerates light walking better than many people expect.

One of kidney weed’s strengths is its adaptability. It prefers Well-draining soil, though it tolerates sandy, loamy, and slightly clay soils once established. Full sun to partial shade. In hotter climates, some afternoon shade helps keep leaves lush.Because it grows close to the ground, kidney weed benefits from soils that don’t stay waterlogged, especially in cooler months.

To get the best results, plant kidney weed densely so it fills gaps quickly and suppresses weeds. It spreads naturally via runners, so minimal effort is needed once it’s established. Occasional trimming keeps it neat and encourages fresh growth.Kidney weed works especially well when paired with stepping stones, allowing you to enjoy its softness without compacting the soil too much. In garden beds, it can act as a living mulch, helping retain moisture and moderate soil temperatures.

Photo: Harrisons Landscaping