Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White Yellow | Blue Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Blue Green | |||
| Autumn | Blue Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Saururaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Houttuynia are rhizomatous perennials with pungently orange-scented, heart-shaped leaves and tiny yellow flowers in spikes with usually 4 prominent white bracts at the base
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- E Himalaya to Japan
How to grow
Cultivation
Tolerant of a range of soils from dry to wet in sun or shade. Can be prone to extensive spreading, especially in wet soils, by underground stems and therefore has the potential to become a nuisance. Ideal for containers where its spread can be restricted. See pond plants and bog gardens for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed or division in spring or take semi-ripe cuttings of young basal shoots
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Low Maintenance
- Garden edging
Pruning
Divide regularly to limit spread
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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