Houttuynia cordata aka Chameleon Plant

Houttuynia cordata is a creeping perennial in the Saururaceae family. Its native range runs from the Himalayas to eastern Asia and Indochina. Gardeners also call it chameleon plant or rainbow plant. It grows in damp places and among shrubs. It also occurs as a weed in wet fields. Its leaves fall each year, and underground rhizomes help it spread.

Garden plants reach about 1–1.6 feet (0.3–0.5 metres) tall. Some reach 2 feet (0.6 metres), according to NC State. RHS gives a spread of 1.6–3.3 feet (0.5–1 metre). NC State records widths up to 10 feet (3 metres). Smooth red or burgundy stems bear alternate, simple leaves. The blue-green leaves have an oval or heart shape. Their edges are smooth, and each leaf lacks hairs. Leaves measure 1–3 inches across and can turn yellow or burgundy in fall. Crushed leaves may give off a strong fish-like smell.

Small green flowers grow in upright spikes above the leaves. Four white bracts surround each spike and provide much of its show. RHS places flowering in late spring. NC State and PFAF also report summer flowers. The plant serves as ground cover and garden edging. It suits pond margins, bog gardens, and damp woodland edges. Its cover does not reliably keep weeds down. Containers can help restrict its spread in a garden.

It grows in sun or shade, including deep shade. Moist soil or shallow standing water suits it well. RHS reports some tolerance of dry soil. NC State warns that drought causes problems, so these accounts differ. It accepts clay, loam, or sand across the soil pH range. RHS rates it H6; NC State lists USDA zones 4–10. It grows fast, and wet soil can encourage more spread. Deep roots make established plants hard to remove. Regular division helps limit its reach. RHS reports few pests or diseases. NC State lists aphids, slugs, and snails as possible pests.

People eat this plant in parts of Asia, including Vietnam. Young leaves and shoots can be eaten raw or cooked. PFAF also lists roots and fruit as edible parts. Reports describe leaf scents ranging from citrus to coriander or fish. PFAF records traditional medicinal uses, including treatments for fever and skin problems. These reports do not establish that such treatments work. PFAF lists no known hazards, but gives no pet-safety assessment.