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Silver Ponyfoot

Dichondra argentea

Last reviewed: June 2026

Dichondra argentea is a low-growing silver-leaved forb native to Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas that blooms from March through August in full sun conditions.

Silver Ponyfoot (Dichondra argentea)
Photo: (c) Michael J. Papay, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Michael J. Papay

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

3"–6" H × 24"–30" W

Bloom

Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

AZ, NM, TX

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Silver Ponyfoot forms a low, spreading mat with distinctive silvery-green foliage that creates an attractive groundcover. This drought-tolerant perennial produces small, inconspicuous flowers from spring through summer and maintains its foliage most of the year. It works well as a lawn alternative or accent planting in sunny, dry areas.

Growing Silver Ponyfoot

Grow Silver Ponyfoot in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 3 to 6 inches tall and spread 24 to 30 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.

In an HOA neighborhood

Silver Ponyfoot is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.

Wildlife value

This plant provides minimal wildlife value, with small flowers that attract few pollinators. It primarily serves as groundcover habitat rather than a significant food source for wildlife.

Common questions

What regions is Silver Ponyfoot native to?
Dichondra argentea is native to the southwestern United States, specifically Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.
When does Silver Ponyfoot bloom?
Silver Ponyfoot produces flowers from March through August, providing an extended blooming period during the growing season.
What are the water requirements for Dichondra argentea?
Silver Ponyfoot has low water requirements and is well-adapted to drought conditions, making it suitable for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.
How much sunlight does Silver Ponyfoot need?
This plant thrives in full sun conditions but can tolerate some partial sun exposure in its native southwestern habitats.
Is Silver Ponyfoot HOA-friendly?
Silver Ponyfoot is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Does Silver Ponyfoot fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.