Houttuynia cordata 'Chameleon'
Chameleon Plant
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Chameleon Plant (Houttuynia cordata 'Chameleon') - Description
The most gorgeous variegated ivy you can imagine, and a great choice for a container. Few plants can pump out this much color in either shade or sun. The easiest way to grow it is to fill a tub with water and just toss it in (it's a fabulous no-care water plant). Or plant it in pots with coleus, impatiens, Helichrysum. The pointed leaves have creamy white to yellow edges, splashed with red. The stems are rich red too. It's even more colorful in fall, and holds its color in shade. (In the open ground, be sure to plant it where it can be readily controlled; Houttuynia spreads rapidly, especially in moist soils.)
Chameleon Plant (Houttuynia cordata 'Chameleon') - Blooming
Expect inconspicuous clusters of white-bracted flowers like tiny dogwood blossoms.
Chameleon Plant (Houttuynia cordata 'Chameleon') - Growth
The underground rhizomes send up 2-3" leaves that look similar to English Ivy. Its ground cover that disappears in winter, however. The leaves give off scent similar to orange peel when crushed. Can spread aggressively in wet ground. They prefer full sun or half sun.
Chameleon Plant (Houttuynia cordata 'Chameleon') - Planting
Propagate by division, but be wary of it becoming invasive. Growing them in raised pots will prevent any spreading issues.
Chameleon Plant (Houttuynia cordata 'Chameleon') - Interesting facts
The leaves are used as an herb in Vietnam, where it is called fish-mint. They may be eaten raw or cooked and have a peppery taste. Its roots are eaten in Southwestern China.
Chameleon Plant (Houttuynia cordata 'Chameleon') - Soil and irrigation
They require ample water, and can even grow in standing water, good for pond sites.
