Botanical Name: Dichondra argentea ‘Silver Falls’

Common Name: Silver Dichondra

Hardiness Zone: Annual in Most Climates; Perennial in Warm Regions (USDA Zones 10–11)

Size: 2–4" Tall × 24–48"+ Trailing

Growth Habit: Trailing, Cascading, Ground-Hugging Habit

Sunlight: Full Sun (Best Color and Density); Tolerates Light Shade

Soil: Prefers Well-Drained Soil; Adapts to Lean or Sandy Soils

Water Needs: Low to Moderate; Drought Tolerant Once Established

Bloom Season: Grown for Foliage (Spring through Fall)

Fertilizer: Minimal; Avoid Excess Fertility

Features: Silvery Metallic Foliage, Heat Tolerant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance

Uses: Ideal for Hanging Baskets, Containers, Window Boxes, Edging, and Ground Cover in Warm Climates

Patent: ✔ Patented

Propagation: ❌ Propagation Prohibited Without License

See our complete Dichondra Growth & Care Guide for full care details.

More About Dichondra ‘Silver Falls’

‘Silver Falls’ is easily the most recognizable Dichondra and one of the top trailing foliage plants we grow. The long, flowing streams of soft silver foliage create instant impact in containers and hanging baskets. The rounded leaves catch sunlight in a way that almost makes them glow, especially in the late afternoon when the light hits just right. It adds movement, brightness, and a touch of elegance without ever feeling overdone. There are no flowers to deadhead, no bloom cycles to manage — just steady, reliable growth and consistent color from planting until frost. 

Its growth habit is fast and dramatic. In a strong growing season, it spills several feet from large hanging baskets. When you want that true cascading waterfall effect, this plant delivers. It doesn’t just drape; it flows. I especially like how refined the leaf texture is. The small, rounded leaves layer tightly together, creating a smooth ribbon of silver rather than a thin, stringy trail. That density makes containers look full and intentional early in the season, not sparse or unfinished.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials here in the South, ‘Silver Falls’ has proven itself in the toughest conditions we can throw at it — full sun, reflected heat from patios, long dry stretches, and high humidity. It establishes quickly, roots in aggressively, and then just keeps going. Even during extended 90-degree stretches, it holds that bright silver tone instead of bleaching out or burning at the tips. One of the biggest advantages is how low-maintenance it is. There’s no constant trimming, no constant grooming. It naturally maintains a flowing, symmetrical cascade. 

The silver acts like a cooling element in the composition. When we design Summer containers filled with hot colors, adding ‘Silver Falls’ instantly balances the intensity. It softens bold palettes and gives the eye a place to rest. We’ve also found it to be remarkably drought tolerant once established. While no container plant should be neglected, ‘Silver Falls’ is forgiving if you’re a little late with watering. That resilience makes it especially valuable for porch planters and hanging baskets exposed to wind and heat.

Dichondra 'Silver Falls' vs. Emerald Falls

Dichondra ‘Silver Falls’ is prized for its striking silver foliage and dramatic cascading habit, offering much stronger visual contrast than ‘Emerald Falls’. Its metallic leaves reflect light and stand out sharply against darker greens and bold flower colors, making it a go-to choice for high-impact containers and hanging baskets. Compared to Emerald Falls, Silver Falls typically trails more aggressively and reads looser and more architectural rather than dense. It also prefers full sun and drier conditions, where its color stays brightest and most consistent. Silver Falls excels when the goal is drama and contrast, while Emerald Falls supports a softer, more blended design.