Overview

Houttuynia 'Flore Pleno' is a perennial in the genus Houttuynia, part of the Saururaceae family. Houttuynia 'Flore Pleno' grows best in partial shade and shade, and tolerates moist and well-drained soils. Suggested uses include groundcover, borders and containers. It is native to East Asia.

About

Houttuynia 'Flore Pleno' is a perennial in the genus Houttuynia, valued for its scented foliage rather than floral display. It suits shaded, damp positions and is often used as a ground cover, in borders or in containers. The foliage gives a slightly fishy, citrusy scent when leaves are crushed. It flowers between June and August.

About the genus

Houttuynia is a genus of two species native to Southeast Asia in the family Saururaceae. One species, H. cordata, is widely cultivated as a culinary herb.

Wikipedia contributors, "Houttuynia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Houttuynia

In the garden

Houttuynia 'Flore Pleno' originates from East Asia and belongs to the Saururaceae family. As a perennial, it is primarily grown for its leaves and scent rather than for prominent blooms; any flowers appear between June and August. The cultivar adapts to shady corners where light is limited but moisture is available. Plant in partial shade or shade in moist, well-drained soil. Although it prefers consistently damp conditions, avoid waterlogged situations by improving drainage or using a raised bed or container with free-draining compost. Position plants where they can receive protection from strong sun and drying winds, which can desiccate the leaf surface. Mulch will help retain soil moisture through drier spells. Use Houttuynia 'Flore Pleno' as a ground cover beneath trees, along shaded borders, or in pots and troughs for patios and terraces. It responds well to trimming back if foliage becomes untidy and can be divided to populate new sites. The leaves release a slightly fishy, citrusy scent when crushed, so place plants where that aroma will be noticed—near paths, seating areas or in containers close to doors for the most effect.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Houttuynia

Sunlight

partial shade, shade

Soil type

moist, well-drained

Soil moisture

moist

Plant details

Houttuynia 'Flore Pleno' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

perennial

Suggested uses

groundcover, borders, containers

Native to

East Asia

Fragrance

slightly fishy, citrusy scent when leaves are crushed

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Houttuynia 'Flore Pleno'

Cultivation

Prefers moist, humus-rich soil; tolerates shade; can be invasive if not contained.

Pruning

Cut back in early spring to control spread and encourage fresh growth.

Propagation

Division in spring or autumn.

Frequently asked questions