Houttuynia Pied Piper

Houttuynia Pied Piper

Chameleon Plant

Fish Mint

Houttuynia Pied Piper is a rapidly spreading perennial with pretty variegated leaves, shades of green, pale yellow and red. Small yellow-green flowers are surrounded by white bracts in June and July. Curiously aromatic leaves scented of citrus. It grows  15 t0 30cm, and enjoys sun or part shade. It is Hardy and best results are when planted in moist soil.

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Houttuynia cordata Pied Piper, also known as the Chameleon Plant or Fish Mint, is a garden cultivar with unique characteristics that make it stand out among other garden plants. The plant is a member of the Saururaceae family and is native to Southeast Asia, where it grows wild in damp areas such as stream banks, ponds, and marshes. The plant’s popularity has grown over time due to its unique features and usefulness, making it a must-have for gardeners.

Houttuynia cordata Pied Piper is a herbaceous perennial plant that can grow up to 30 cm tall and 60 cm wide. The plant features heart-shaped leaves that grow alternately on the stem and range in color from bright green to dark red. The leaves have a distinct smell that is described as fishy or minty, hence the plant’s name Fish Mint, although some say it smells of damp dog or citrus… you decide! The leaves of this plant can be consumed raw or cooked and are often used in Southeast Asian cuisine as a spice or a vegetable.

One of the most appealing features of Houttuynia cordata Pied Piper is its ability to change colors. In spring and summer, the plant produces bright green leaves with white or yellow streaks. As the plant matures and the temperature drops, the leaves turn red or purple. This unique color-changing ability makes the plant an excellent choice for gardeners looking to add a bit of color and diversity to their gardens.

Another benefit of Houttuynia cordata Pied Piper is its ability to spread quickly and fill empty spaces in the garden. The plant thrives in moist soil and is often used to cover the ground around ponds or water features. Its fast-spreading habit also makes it an excellent choice for erosion control.

Houttuynia cordata Pied Piper is easy to grow and requires minimal care. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and can thrive in full sun or partial shade. It is also tolerant of a wide range of temperatures, making it suitable for gardens in different regions. The plant is also resistant to pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners.

The plant spreads quickly and can easily take over the garden if not controlled. To prevent the plant from becoming invasive, gardeners are advised to grow it in a container or use a barrier to contain its growth.

Despite its invasive nature, Houttuynia cordata Pied Piper has many uses. In addition to its culinary uses, the plant has medicinal properties and is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory and digestive disorders. The plant is also used in cosmetics due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Houttuynia cordata Pied Piper is a unique and versatile plant that offers many benefits to gardeners. Its ability to change colors, fast-spreading habit, and low-maintenance nature make it a popular choice for many gardeners. With proper care and management, Houttuynia cordata Pied Piper can add a touch of color and diversity to any garden while also providing culinary and medicinal benefits.