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Key characteristics

Family: Saururaceae
Height: 12 to 18 inches
Width: 18 to 24 inches
Flower color: Small white flowers
Foliage color: Variegated leaves in shades of green, red, yellow, and cream
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Moderate to high
Maintenance: Low to moderate; can be invasive, so regular control may be necessary
Growing zone: USDA Zones 5 to 9
Wildlife: Attracts bees and butterflies

Groundcovers

Houttuynia cordata ‘Chameleon’

Chameleon Plant

Houttuynia cordata 'Chameleon' is an eye-catching perennial known for its vivid, variegated foliage that features a mix of green, yellow, and red hues, which intensify in full sunlight. The heart-shaped leaves are the plant's standout feature, providing colorful interest throughout the growing season. In late spring to early summer, it produces small white flowers with a spiky center, although the foliage remains the primary attraction.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Moderate to high

Bloom time

Late spring to early summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Woodland Gardens
Rain Gardens
Containers
Under Trees

Companion plants

Acorus · Fothergillas · Primroses · Japanese irises · Ligularias · Carex

Design tip

Use this colorful groundcover to weave bold foliage through rain gardens, pond edges, or moist woodland borders. Repeat generous drifts beside contrasting green foliage and upright flowering plants to create natural transitions, movement, and eye-catching focal points.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)