Houttuynia cordata ‘Chameleon’: The Vibrant Heart-Leaved Chameleon Plant
Houttuynia cordata ‘Chameleon’, also known as Heart-Leaved Houttuynia ‘Chameleon’, Chameleon Plant, Heart-Leaved Houttuynia ‘Variegata’, and Heart-Leaved Houttuynia ‘Tricolor’, belongs to the family Saururaceae. This herbaceous perennial, native to regions with zones 4 to 10, presents an exquisite display of variegated leaves, making it a popular choice for ground covers in moist to wet areas and aquatic margins.
The genus name “Houttuynia” honors Martin (or Maarten) Houttuyn, a Dutch naturalist and physician who lived in the 18th century. The specific epithet “cordata” references the heart-shaped leaves, adding to the charm of this delightful plant.
Characteristics:
Houttuynia cordata ‘Chameleon’ showcases its brilliance as a rhizomatous perennial, reaching a height of 0.75 to 1.50 feet and spreading indefinitely through its vigorous rhizomes. The ovate to cordate leaves, measuring up to 3 inches long, boast a dark blue-green hue, edged with captivating shades of red. When bruised, the foliage releases a pleasant aromatic scent. In late spring to early summer, tiny greenish-white flowers grace the plant in 1-1.5 inch spikes, each subtended by four showy white petal-like bracts. These exquisite floral displays, coupled with the vibrant variegated leaves, create a truly captivating sight.
Cultivation of Houttuynia cordata ‘Chameleon’:
Sunlight: Houttuynia cordata ‘Chameleon’ thrives in both full sun and part shade conditions. It displays full shade tolerance, but its foliage achieves the most vibrant colors when grown in full sun.
Watering: This perennial enjoys medium to wet conditions, making it well-suited for water gardens and moist, boggy areas. It tolerates up to 2 inches of standing water over the crowns, making it an ideal choice for shallow pond margins.
Soil: The plant prefers humus-rich, consistently moist to wet soils, offering it the perfect environment for growth. In water gardens, it can be grown in containers as marginal aquatic plants to control its spread.
Pest and Disease: Houttuynia cordata ‘Chameleon’ is generally pest and disease-free, adding to its appeal as an easy-to-grow plant. However, occasional watchfulness for aphids and slugs is advisable.
Propagation:
This robust perennial spreads invasively by rhizomes, so it may need to be restrained. Soil barriers or planting in areas restricted by fixed structures like sidewalks or buildings can help control its spread. In natural ponds, growing the plant in containers sunk into the mud is a popular method to maintain control and prevent unwanted expansion.
Maintenance:
Houttuynia cordata ‘Chameleon’ requires medium maintenance. A light trimming between flowering times will help maintain its attractive form and prevent excessive spread.
Uses:
With its striking appearance, Houttuynia cordata ‘Chameleon’ finds numerous uses in garden landscapes. It serves as a vibrant ground cover in moist to wet areas, making it an ideal choice for water gardens, bog gardens, and around ponds and streams. Additionally, it makes a spectacular addition to beds, borders, cottage gardens, and containers, as well as underplanting roses and shrubs. The plant’s versatility extends to its role as an excellent choice for edging and as a low-growing shrub.
In conclusion, Houttuynia cordata ‘Chameleon’ stands as a vibrant and enchanting herbaceous perennial, celebrated for its heart-shaped variegated leaves and elegant floral displays. A favorite for moist and wet areas, this striking plant flourishes in sunlit or partially shaded conditions. Its low-maintenance nature and ability to thrive in water gardens make it a sought-after choice for gardeners seeking a visually stunning ground cover. Whether as a carpet of colorful foliage or underplanting for other garden features, ‘Chameleon’ adds a touch of brilliance and allure to any landscape. With proper care and containment, this delightful perennial will continue to captivate and charm both garden enthusiasts and casual observers alike.
