Houttuynia cordata 'Chameleon'

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Houttuynia cordata ‘Chameleon’

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Zones 2-9, 14-24, 31-41

Full, Partial, Shade

Ample, Moderate

Saururaceae
Deciduous, Ground covers, Perennials, Aquatic

HOUTTUYNIA

Native from Japan south and east to the mountains of Java and Nepal. Spreading, underground stems send up a 9-in.-high blanket of foliage. Heartshaped green, 3-in.-long look very much like those of English ivy (Hedera helix). Foliage emits an odd scent when crushed, reminiscent of orange peel. Inconspicuous clusters of white-bracted flowers are like tiny dogwood (Cornus) blossoms. This unusual ground cover disappears completely in winter, even in mild climates. Spreads aggressively in wet soil.

'Chameleon'

From China, Japan. Grows 9 in. tall, spreads by runners. Leaves are variegated green, reddish, cream, and pink; fully deciduous.