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Description
Houttuynia Cordata Chameleon, also known as the Chameleon Plant, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Saururaceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia, China, Japan, and Korea. The plant has an attractive scent and is commonly used as a medicinal herb and culinary herb. Houttuynia Cordata Chameleon is a fast-growing plant that can reach a height of 20-80cm and spreads through underground rhizomes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Piperales |
| Family | Saururaceae |
| Genus | Houttuynia |
Appearance
The Houttuynia Cordata Chameleon has unique multi-colored leaves that change color throughout the growing season. The leaves can be green, yellow, orange, red, or pink, depending on the amount of sunlight and temperature. The flowers are small and white, and they bloom in late spring to early summer. The plant can grow up to 80cm tall and spreads quickly through underground rhizomes.
Care Guide
Houttuynia Cordata Chameleon is a low-maintenance plant that can grow in a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so water it regularly. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial to full shade, but it can tolerate some direct sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: Houttuynia Cordata Chameleon can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Houttuynia Cordata Chameleon is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as leaf spot and powdery mildew. Here are some common pests and diseases:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can chew through the leaves and damage the plant. Use slug and snail bait to control them.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and dispose of them properly. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a white powdery coating on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and increase air circulation around the plant to prevent the disease from spreading.
Habitat
Houttuynia Cordata Chameleon is native to Southeast Asia, China, Japan, and Korea. It grows in wetlands, along streams and ponds, and in damp forests. The plant prefers moist soil and partial to full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Houttuynia Cordata Chameleon invasive?
A: Yes, Houttuynia Cordata Chameleon can be invasive because it spreads quickly through underground rhizomes. It is recommended to plant the plant in containers to control its growth.
Q: Can Houttuynia Cordata Chameleon be used as a culinary herb?
A: Yes, Houttuynia Cordata Chameleon has a strong and unique flavor and is commonly used in Asian cuisine as a spice and garnish.
Q: Does Houttuynia Cordata Chameleon need full sunlight?
A: No, Houttuynia Cordata Chameleon prefers partial to full shade, but it can tolerate some direct sunlight.
Q: Does Houttuynia Cordata Chameleon attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, Houttuynia Cordata Chameleon attracts bees and butterflies with its small white flowers.
Related Plants
- Houttuynia Cordata
- Houttuynia Cordata ‘Flore Pleno’
- Houttuynia Cordata ‘Cherry Blossom’
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/groundcover/chameleon-plant/houttuynia-chameleon-plant.htm
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/houttuynia-cordata-chameleon
- https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/perennial/houttuynia-chameleon-plant/
