Houttuynia

Description

Houttuynia, also known as fish mint, lizard tail, or chameleon plant, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Saururaceae family. It is native to Asia and can be found in China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia. The plant can grow up to 80 cm in height and has heart-shaped leaves that are green with red or white veins. Houttuynia is a unique plant because it has a distinct aroma that is often described as a combination of fishy, minty, and citrusy.Aside from its distinct aroma, Houttuynia is also known for its medicinal properties. Its leaves and stems contain flavonoids, alkaloids, and essential oils that have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. In traditional Chinese medicine, Houttuynia is used to treat respiratory infections, diarrhea, and skin infections.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Houttuynia has heart-shaped leaves that are about 4-9 cm long and 3-8 cm wide. The leaves are green with red or white veins and have a distinct aroma. The plant can grow up to 80 cm in height and has small, inconspicuous flowers that bloom in the summer. The flowers are usually greenish-white and are arranged in small clusters.

Care Guide

Water

Houttuynia prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist. However, it is important not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.

Fertilization

Houttuynia does not require much fertilization. It can be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Soil

Houttuynia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.

Sunlight

Houttuynia prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some sun, but too much sun can scorch the leaves.

Hardiness Zones

Houttuynia can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Houttuynia is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It can also be affected by powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide.

Habitat

Houttuynia is native to Asia and can be found in China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia. It grows in wetlands, along streams and rivers, and in shady areas.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Houttuynia edible?

A: Yes, Houttuynia is edible and is often used in salads, soups, and stir-fries in Southeast Asia. Its leaves have a distinct flavor that is often described as a combination of fishy, minty, and citrusy.

Q: Can Houttuynia be grown indoors?

A: Yes, Houttuynia can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with enough light and moisture. It can be grown in a pot with well-draining soil and placed in a bright, humid area.

Q: How often should Houttuynia be fertilized?

A: Houttuynia does not require much fertilization. It can be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Q: What are the medicinal properties of Houttuynia?

A: Houttuynia contains flavonoids, alkaloids, and essential oils that have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. In traditional Chinese medicine, Houttuynia is used to treat respiratory infections, diarrhea, and skin infections.

Related Plants

• Saururus chinensis
• Saururus cernuus
• Asarum europaeum
• Lysimachia congestiflora

References

• Wu, X., Liu, Z., & Li, X. (2017). Houttuynia cordata: A review of phytochemistry and pharmacology and quality control. Chinese Herbal Medicines, 9(1), 3-17. doi: 10.1016/S1674-6384(17)60001-8
• Choi, D. W., Jung, H. A., & Choi, J. S. (2010). Anti-inflammatory principles from the fruits of Evodia rutaecarpa and their cellular action mechanisms. Archives of pharmacal research, 33(9), 1463-1472. doi: 10.1007/s12272-010-0904-8
• Nguyen, T. T., Parat, M. O., Hodda, S., & Johnston, M. R. (2012). Essential oil of Houttuynia cordata Thunb. as a potent anti-inflammatory agent for allergic asthma. Phytotherapy Research, 26(3), 428-434. doi: 10.1002/ptr.3575