Dichondra

/daɪˈkɑːndrə/ noun

Definition

A creeping plant with small round leaves, often used as a ground cover in warm climates instead of grass.

Etymology

From Greek dicho- (two) + chondros (grain or cartilage), referring to the structure of the seed pod. The plant name was coined in the 19th century based on its botanical characteristics.

Kelly Says

Dichondra became popular in mid-20th century American suburban landscaping as a water-saving alternative to grass lawns, but it fell out of fashion—it's a perfect example of how gardening trends cycle through 'discoveries' that were already known and abandoned.

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