About
Houttuynia cordata, heart-leaved houttuynia, is a wide-spreading, herbaceous perennial to 30 cm with dull, blue-green, heart-shaped, pungently scented leaves and dense flower spikes with four white bracts in late spring. A useful and vigorous ground-cover for a moist, partly shaded border. The cultivar 'Chameleon' has striking red, green and yellow variegated foliage.
About the genus
Houttuynia are rhizomatous perennials with pungently scented, heart-shaped leaves and tiny yellow flowers in spikes with usually four prominent white bracts at the base. Vigorous ground-cover plants for moist, shaded positions.
Plant details
Suggested usesWalls, fences, pergolas, arbours.
Care notes
CultivationPlant in fertile, well-drained soil. Provide support.
PruningTrain and tie in new growth. Prune after flowering.
PropagationPropagate by division, cuttings, or seed as appropriate.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free. Monitor for common garden pests.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant. Ensure good air circulation.