Houttuynia cordata ‘Variegata’

Blooming Time

June

Exposure

True
Full Sun
True
Light Shade

This uncommon Japanese plant rates as one of the most unusual ground covers. Citrus scented, its variegated foliage contains hues of cream, green, purple, and gold and although blooming during June with tiny creamy white spikes, it flowers are secondary to the foliage. Chameleon houttuynia spreads at a moderate rate by rhizomes, and tolerates to saturated soils. Often it is planted at waterside, or in containers placed directly in the water.

Details

Hardiness Zone:

5

Blossom Color:

White to Cream

Growth Habit:

Creeping

Max Height:

8"

Texture:

Medium Texture

Recommended Spacing:

10" to 12"

We sell this plant in these containers:

#1 Pot
#1 Pot

Special Characteristics

True
Seasonal Effect
True
Moderate Area
True
Drought Tolerant
True
Bees
True
Large Area
True
Small Area
True
Deer Resistant
True
Moisture Tolerant

Features

Citrus scented foliage of cream, green, purple, and gold. Tiny spikes of creamy white flowers arise during early summer.

Landscape Value

Moderate to large scale spreading ground cover, accent, or companion. Good in containers and water tolerant.

Care

Watering:

Chameleon Houttuynia requires a fair amount of supplemental watering and often requires watering on a regular basis during the growing season.

Fertilizing:

Chameleon Houttuynia is a moderate feeder, benefiting from a couple of annual applications of slow release fertilizer. A spring application of a 3-1-2 ratio (such as a 15-5-10) can be applied at a rate of about 10 pounds per 1000 square feet, and during early fall, an application of a 2-1-2 ratio (such as a 10-5-10) can be applied to encourage root development and cold hardiness.

Pruning:

Chameleon Houttuynia is a deciduous plant (nonevergreen) and does not require pruning. It is perfectly acceptable to allow the dropped leaves to decompose and nourish the soil.

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