Houttuynia (Houttuynia)

Houttuynia Plant Features

Fast growing and super easy, houttuynia offers pretty marbled, heart-shaped leaves that look great all summer long. Houttuynia is a creeping perennial that grows just 6 to 12 inches high so you can use it as a fast-spreading groundcover, especially in areas with wet soil. In fact, houttuynia does best planted along a bog, stream, or directly in the shallows of a water garden. When brushed or bruised the leaves give off a fresh citrus scent. Houttuynia prefers a partially shady location but has best color when grown in full sun. Dense spikes of tiny flowers appear in the summer. Deer and rabbits generally leave houttuynia alone because of its fragrant leaves. Hardy from zones 5-9.

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Houttuynia Growing Instructions

Plant houttuynia in a partially shady location with rich, moist soil. This rugged perennial will also grow well and have more intensive color in a sunny spot as long as it is rooted in moist soil. Houttuynia can become invasive so plant it where you can control its spread if necessary. Or, sink the plant, pot and all into the soil so the roots can't escape easily. Houttuynia also works well as a container plant.

Houttuynia is not recommended for human or animal consumption.

  • Water

    Moist

  • Light

    Outside: Part sun

    Outside: Sun

  • Colors

    Green

    Pink

    White

  • Special Features

    Colorful foliage

    Deer/rabbit resistant

    Fragrant flowers/foliage

    Groundcover

Complement your Houttuynia

Elephant Ear
Water loving plants such as Elephant Ear make good companions for Houttuynia.

Canna
Sunny moist spots are ideal for a colorful planting of Canna Lily and Houttuynia.

Bee Balm
Blooming in full sun or partial shade, Bee Balm is a great companion.