Dymondia margaretae

(Silver Carpet)

Dymondia margaretae (Silver Carpet) is a dense, mat-forming evergreen groundcover that grows just 1–3″ tall and slowly spreads 1–2′ wide. Its narrow gray-green leaves curl at the edges to reveal white-felted undersides, giving the plant a silvery, variegated look year round. Small yellow daisy-like flowers nestle into the foliage in summer. Drought tolerant once established and durable underfoot, it makes a waterwise lawn alternative and a natural filler between pavers.

Origins And Landscape Adaptability

Native to the coastal plains of South Africa’s Western Cape, Silver Carpet is especially adaptable to dry summers and mild, wet winters. The plant was named for Margaret E. Dryden-Dymond, who collected it in the Bredasdorp district during a 1933 Kirstenbosch expedition. Dymondia margaretae is the only species in its genus and a member of the daisy family (Asteraceae). It has been a common sight in California landscapes since the 1980s, where it is also sold as Mini Gazania.

Thrives in Sunset Garden Zones 15–24 and is well suited to coastal-influenced areas of the Bay Area. It tolerates heat and salt spray, but it prefers cooler temperatures and slows its growth in extreme heat. In hotter inland gardens, provide afternoon shade and consistent moisture. Hardy to about 25°F, so protect plants from hard freezes.

Planting And Care Instructions

Sunlight: Silver Carpet performs best in full sun, which gives the brightest silvery-green foliage color. It tolerates light shade, but heavy shade thins the foliage.

Watering: Water regularly after planting. The plant spreads faster with irrigation, so consistent water through the first growing season helps it fill in. Once established, it is very drought tolerant thanks to its deep, succulent roots. Leaves curl inward and show more of their white undersides when the plant is thirsty, which is a helpful signal. Overwatering is the most common cause of its decline.

Soil: Plant in well-draining soil. Sandy soils are ideal. It performs poorly in heavy clay that holds moisture, so plant on a gentle slope or amend with sand or grit where drainage is a concern.

Fertilizing: Fertilizing isn’t necessary for this variety.

Pruning: While regular pruning isn’t needed, trim edges to keep the carpet within its intended area.

USDA Hardiness Zones: Rated for USDA growing zones 9–11. Cover plants after dusk during cold fronts for protection.

Pollinators: The small yellow flowers attract bees and butterflies. Deer and rabbits typically leave it alone.

Pests: Gophers are the main problem, as they feed on the underground rhizomes. Consider a gopher basket or choose another groundcover where gophers are active.

Landscape Design Ideas

Use Silver Carpet as a living mulch between flagstone, stepping stones, and pavers, along pathways, or around patios, where its low profile softens hardscape edges. It also works as a lawn alternative in smaller, low-traffic areas, and for erosion control on slopes, in rock gardens, and in seaside landscapes. It handles light to moderate foot traffic, but it is not a replacement for a heavily used play lawn. It is also a fire deterrent, which suits defensible-space plantings.

Pair it with other drought tolerant plants for a cohesive waterwise design. For a cottage look, plant it at the base of Salvia clevelandii ‘Allen Chickering’. For a more contemporary look, consider ornamental grasses like Festuca glauca ‘Elijah Blue’ or architectural rushes like Chondropetalum elephantinum, with the silver mat as a clean groundplane.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Dymondia margaretae (Silver Carpet)

How big does it grow?
Dymondia margaretae grows 1–3 inches tall and slowly spreads 1–2 feet wide, forming a dense, flat mat.

When does it bloom?
It blooms in summer, with small yellow daisy-like flowers that sit low in the foliage. The silvery leaves provide year-round interest.

Is it drought tolerant?
Yes. Once established, it is very drought tolerant. Water regularly during the first growing season, then reduce irrigation. In hot inland climates, plan on occasional deep summer watering. Too much water is as harmful as too little.

Can I walk on it?
Yes. Silver Carpet tolerates light to moderate foot traffic, which makes it a good choice between stepping stones and pavers. It is not a replacement for a heavily used play lawn.

Can I grow it in a pot or container?
Yes. It works as a low container accent. Use a fast-draining mix and a pot with drainage holes, and avoid overwatering.

Is it a deer deterrent?
Yes, Dymondia margaretae is a great deer and rabbit deterrent.

Is it evergreen?
Yes, Dymondia margaretae is an evergreen perennial that holds its silver-green foliage year round.

Botanical Name: Dymondia margaretae

Common Name: Silver Carpet

Average Landscape Size: 1-3" x 1-2'

Plant Type: Evergreen

Bloom Color: Yellow

Foliage Color: Grey-Green

Forms: Groundcover

Special Features: Deer Deterrent, Drought Tolerant, Easy Pruning, Good For Container Or Ground Planting, Low Maintenance, Waterwise,