About
A wide-spreading, herbaceous perennial to 30cm in height, with perfumed, variegated leaves splashed and margined cream, often heavily red-flushed. Dense white and cream flower spikes appear in late spring.
About the genus
Houttuynia are rhizomatous perennials with pungently orange-scented, heart-shaped leaves and tiny yellow flowers in spikes with usually 4 prominent white bracts at the base
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeAquatic, Bogs, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationTolerant of a range of soils from dry to wet in sun or shade. Can be prone to extensive spreading, especially in wet soils, by underground stems and therefore has the potential to become a nuisance. Ideal for containers where its spread can be restricted. See pond plants and bog gardens for further advice
PruningDivide regularly to limit spread
PropagationPropagate by division in spring or take semi-ripe cuttings of young basal shoots
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free