Chameleon Plant Houttuynia cordata 'Chameleon' (v)
ABOUT
The Chameleon plant, as its name suggests, boasts a spectacular display of colors on its heart-shaped leaves. Each leaf is a canvas of green, often adorned with shades of red, pink, yellow, and cream. The colors intermingle, giving the impression that the foliage is a living kaleidoscope, which shifts in hue and intensity depending on various factors such as light and seasonality. The Chameleon plant produces small, inconspicuous, white flowers with prominent centers that can sometimes take on a greenish hue. These blooms, although not the main attraction, add a layer of texture and interest to the plant's overall appearance. The plant’s stems often echo the foliage's variegation, carrying streaks of red to pink, contrasting beautifully against the green backdrop of your garden or landscape. The foliage of the Chameleon plant has a distinct aroma when crushed or bruised, which is a notable characteristic although opinions on its pleasantness can be quite subjective. The plant spreads enthusiastically through its root system, often creating dense, carpet-like mats of colorful foliage over the ground. Whether lauded for its beauty or managed for its vigor, the Chameleon plant is a striking addition to spaces that can accommodate its lively character and effervescent charm.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saururaceae
Synonyms
Chameleon Plant, Rainbow Plant, Fish Mint, Fish Leaf, Heartleaf, Fish Wort, Bishop's Weed, Chinese Lizard Tail, Chameleon Houttuynia
Common names
Houttuynia cordata.
ToxicityTo humans
Houttuynia cordata 'Chameleon', commonly known as chameleon plant, is not considered toxic to humans. There is no widespread evidence or reports suggesting that ingestion of this plant causes poisoning in humans. Thus, no specific symptoms of poisoning are typically associated with this plant. However, as with any plant, individual allergies and sensitivities can occur, so it is generally advisable not to eat plants not specifically grown for consumption.
To pets
The chameleon plant is also not considered toxic to pets. There is no common evidence that it causes poisoning in animals such as dogs and cats. Therefore, there are no specific symptoms associated with the ingestion of this plant by pets. Nonetheless, every animal might react differently to new foods or plants, and ingestion can sometimes lead to mild stomach upset or other digestive issues simply due to the novelty or individual intolerance.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Mixed
Flower color
White
Height
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Spread
1 feet (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: 'Chameleon' features variegated leaves in a range of colors, adding visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
- Ground Cover: Its dense growth habit makes it excellent for covering bare spots, controlling erosion, and suppressing weeds.
- Easy to Grow: The plant is undemanding and adaptable, thriving in a variety of soil types and conditions.
- Moisture Loving: It prefers wet conditions, making it suitable for planting in bog gardens or near water features.
- Attracts Wildlife: The flowers of Chameleon may attract butterflies and other pollinators to the garden.
- Culinary Use: In some cultures, the plant's leaves are used as a flavorful herb in cooking, offering a lemony taste.
- Drought Tolerant: Despite its preference for moist environments, the plant can also tolerate periods of drought once established.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Houttuynia cordata 'Chameleon' contains compounds that have been reported to reduce inflammation in the body.
- Antibacterial: The plant has demonstrated antibacterial properties, particularly against various strains of bacteria.
- Antiviral: Components within Houttuynia cordata 'Chameleon' have shown potential antiviral effects, notably against certain viruses.
- Immune system support: The herb is believed to influence the immune system positively, although the exact mechanisms are not fully understood.
- Diuretic: Traditionally, Houttuynia cordata 'Chameleon' is used as a diuretic to help with the elimination of excess fluids from the body.
- Detoxifying: In traditional medicine, the plant is used to aid with detoxification and to improve overall health.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Houttuynia cordata 'Chameleon' can be used as a wrapping material for food, where its leaves can impart a distinctive flavor to steamed or grilled dishes.
- The colorful leaves of Chameleon plant are sometimes used in floral arrangements to add a unique and vibrant touch of greenery.
- Ground cover in garden designs is another use, as its vigorous growth and spreading habit can quickly fill in bare patches.
- Chameleon plant can serve as a living mulch, helping to retain soil moisture and suppress weed growth due to its dense foliage.
- As a fish tank decoration, aquarists may use Houttuynia cordata 'Chameleon' to create a natural and aesthetically pleasing underwater landscape.
- In ponds or water gardens, this variety provides habitat for aquatic wildlife while also contributing to the aesthetic appeal with its variegated foliage.
- Culinary artists sometimes use the leaves of Chameleon plant to create colorful and edible garnishes for plates, enhancing the visual appeal of the dish.
- Its use in crafting handmade paper, where the fibers and colors of the plant can be incorporated into the papermaking process for unique textures and designs.
- As an accent plant in container gardens, Chameleon plant can be paired with other plants to create interesting and contrasting displays on patios or balconies.
- Educational use in school gardens, as Chameleon plant's fast growth and tolerance to various conditions make it an ideal specimen for teaching about invasive species and plant adaptation.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chameleon plant is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chameleon plant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: The Houttuynia cordata 'Chameleon' is known for its vigorous growth and adaptability to various conditions, symbolizing the ability to thrive in diverse and challenging environments.
- Balance: With its variegated foliage of different colors, it represents harmony and balance, suggesting that diversity can bring beauty and stability to life.
- Healing: Used in traditional medicine, particularly in Asia, the plant is symbolic of healing and the soothing of ailments, reflecting its use in supporting health and well-being.
- Vibrancy: The bright and varied colors of its leaves symbolize vibrancy and energy, encouraging a zest for life and positivity in the face of mundane routines.
WaterChameleon plant thrives in consistently moist soil but it's crucial not to overwater. Water this plant thoroughly once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. In especially hot or dry conditions, you may need to water twice a week. Ensure you're providing enough water to soak the soil each time, using approximately half a gallon for outdoor plants, adjusting for size and environmental factors. During winter or cooler months, reduce watering frequency to prevent waterlogged soil which can lead to root rot.
LightThe chameleon plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun if it's not too hot or glaring. The ideal spot would be where it can receive dappled sunlight or morning sun and afternoon shade. This protects the plant from the intense midday sun which can sometimes scorch its leaves, particularly in hotter climates.
TemperatureThe chameleon plant does best in temperatures ranging from 50°F to 80°F. It can survive a minimum temperature of around 30°F but should be protected from frost. The ideal conditions are warm and humid, but this plant is relatively adaptable and can tolerate a range between the specified temperatures.
PruningPrune the chameleon plant to control its spread, as it can become invasive, and to maintain its shape. It's best to prune in early spring or after the plant has finished flowering. Cut back the stems to just above the ground every few years to rejuvenate older plants. Regular trimming of wayward stems during the growing season can also encourage bushier growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilChameleon plant thrives best in soil that is consistently moist, rich in organic matter, and well-draining. A good mix can be made with equal parts garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand. This plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingChameleon plants should be repotted every 2-3 years or when they outgrow their current container. They can spread aggressively, so keeping them in pots can help contain their growth.
Humidity & MistingChameleon plants do well in average to high humidity conditions. They can adapt to outdoor humidity levels but appreciate a bit more humidity if grown indoors.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, keep soil moist, and provide rich soil.
Hardiness zone
5-10 USDA
Life cycleHouttuynia cordata 'Chameleon' (commonly known as Chameleon Plant) begins its life cycle when seeds germinate in moist, fertile soil during spring. Emerging as seedlings, the plants develop a network of creeping rhizomes and heart-shaped, variegated leaves that spread across the ground. In its growing season, typically from late spring to early fall, the Chameleon Plant produces tiny white flowers that are often obscured by a set of prominent leaf-like bracts, which may add a splash of color to the garden. During this stage, the plant expands rapidly, as it can be aggressive in favorable conditions. Once the growing season ends, the plant starts to die back, with foliage typically withering in response to cooler temperatures and frost. The rhizomes, which are perennial, survive underground during the winter dormancy period, ready to regrow when the warmth of spring returns.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Houttuynia cordata 'Chameleon', commonly known as chameleon plant, is most frequently propagated through division, which can be carried out in the spring. This method involves gently digging up an established clump of the plant and carefully separating the rhizomes, ensuring that each section has a portion of the root and a few shoots. These divisions can then be immediately replanted in moist, well-drained soil, keeping them at the same depth they were growing at before. It is important to water the newly transplanted divisions well to help establish them. Although Houttuynia cordata 'Chameleon' can also be propagated by other methods, division is preferred because it is straightforward and typically yields robust, quickly established plants.
