Houttuynia

Very distinctive plant for two reasons: its multi-colored leaves, a mix of red, green and yellow, and the challenge you’ll have ever getting rid of it once you’ve introduced it to your garden. Like I did. The problem isn’t so much that it seeds itself here and there but its long tap roots make it impossible to dig up. Thus, it’s always with you. Some sources recommend it only be planted by itself as a ground cover, with deep boundaries on all sides, or in containers.

Native to Japan and mainland Southeast Asia.

Shown here is H. cordata ‘Chameleon’.

Details

• Grows to 12-15 inches.
• USDA Zones 5 to 10.
• Sun OR shade.
• Tolerant of wide range of soil, both wet and dry.