🌿 Silver Falls: The Silvery Cascade That Shines Year-Round

🌿 Silver Falls: The Silvery Cascade That Shines Year-Round

If you're seeking a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plant that adds a touch of elegance to your garden, look no further than Dichondra ‘Silver Falls’.
With its shimmering silver foliage and cascading habit, this versatile plant is perfect for Australian gardens — whether in hanging baskets, as a ground cover, or spilling over retaining walls.


What Is Silver Falls?

Dichondra argentea ‘Silver Falls’, also known as silver ponysfoot or silver nickel vine, is a trailing perennial native to the arid regions of Texas and Mexico.
Its small, fan-shaped, silver-green leaves create a stunning waterfall effect, making it a popular choice for adding texture and contrast in a variety of garden settings.
This plant thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, making it ideal for Australia’s diverse climates.


🌱 Germination Tips & Methods

Silver Falls seeds can be a little slow to germinate, but with the right method, you’ll achieve excellent results:

  • Surface Sow: Scatter seeds lightly on top of moist seed-raising mix. Just very lightly cover with soil so some of the seed is still visible — these seeds need light to germinate.

  • Humidity Dome: Use a plastic humidity dome or cling wrap to trap moisture. Keep covered for the first 3–5 days.

  • Temperature: Maintain warmth — ideally 22–28°C. A heat mat can greatly speed up germination in cooler months.

  • Watering: Mist gently to avoid disturbing seeds. Once sprouted, reduce humidity gradually and water from the bottom.

  • Germination Time: Expect germination within 7–14 days. Be patient — Silver Falls rewards care with stunning results!


Why Grow Silver Falls?

  • Drought-Tolerant: Once established, Silver Falls requires minimal watering, making it perfect for water-wise gardens.

  • Versatile: Ideal for hanging baskets, containers, ground cover, or cascading over walls and rockeries.

  • Low Maintenance: With minimal care, this plant provides year-round silvery interest.

  • Pest Resistant: Generally free from serious pest issues — another tick for easy care!


How to Grow Silver Falls

🗓 Best Time to Plant: Spring to early summer, once risk of frost has passed.
☀️ Sunlight: Thrives in full sun. Some partial shade is tolerated but can reduce vibrancy of silver colour.
🌱 Soil: Loves free-draining soil. Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged spots.
💧 Watering: Water regularly during the first 2–3 weeks. Once roots are established, reduce to occasional watering.
🌿 Feeding: Use a balanced slow-release fertiliser in spring for lush, vigorous growth.
✂️ Pruning: Trim lightly to control spread and shape — also encourages thicker growth.


Where to Use Silver Falls

  • 🌸 Hanging Baskets & Containers: Allow it to spill over edges for a cascading silver curtain.

  • 🌿 Ground Cover: Great for hot, dry areas or between pavers.

  • 🪴 Borders & Edging: Use along pathways or garden beds for a soft, flowing finish.

  • 🪨 Rock Gardens & Retaining Walls: A natural fit to drape over hard surfaces and bring softness and contrast.


Quick Tips for Success

  • Ensure excellent drainage — root rot is the only real enemy.

  • Don’t overwater — it prefers drying out between drinks.

  • In frost-prone areas, treat as an annual or overwinter cuttings indoors.

  • Pair it with bold greens or flowers to highlight its silver tone.


Silver Falls is more than just a trailing plant — it’s a silvery showstopper.
Whether you're creating a dreamy feature in pots or a sweeping silver ground cover, this hardy beauty delivers charm, contrast, and resilience in every season.

Happy sowing,
– The Seed Vault 🌱