SafePlants

Dichondra carolinensis (Carolina Ponysfoot)

Dichondra carolinensis, commonly known as Carolina Ponysfoot, is a low-growing plant often used as a groundcover.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Dichondra carolinensis Michx.
• Family: Convolvulaceae (Morning-glory Family)
• Synonyms: Dichondra repens
• Common Names: Carolina Ponysfoot, Ponyfoot, Grass Ponysfoot

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that the leaves of Carolina Ponysfoot are sometimes consumed with other wild greens.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to North America.
• Found in moist hammocks and floodplain forests.
• Specific locations mentioned include: Mississippi, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, South Carolina's maritime forests, and Florida.
• Also introduced to Brazil.

Morphological Characteristics

• A forb/herb (a non-woody plant that is not a grass).
• Has creeping stems.
• Features horseshoe-shaped leaves that grow up to 0.75 inch wide.
• Produces greenish-yellow flowers less than 0.125 inch across.

Ecological Role

• Can be considered a creeping perennial weed capable of quick spread.
• Functions as a groundcover.

Quirky Facts

• Carolina Ponysfoot leaves can be used to cut the bitterness of other wild greens.
• It looks like tiny lily-pads between stepping stones.

Further Resources

• Dave's Garden: A community sharing gardening tips and ideas.
• USF Herbarium: Specimen details available.
• Discover Life: Information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Dichondra carolinensis.
• Project Noah: A tool for exploring and documenting local wildlife.