houttuynia chameleon fish mint

Grown as a leaf vegetable, particularly in Vietnam,  and is used as a fresh herbal garnish. The leaf has an unusual taste that is often described as fishy (thus the nickname "fish mint"). Hardy zones 5-11. Grows best in moist soil to 2” of water. It has heart shaped leaves that are variegated with maroon-purple shades. Height when matured 4” to 6” tall. Will put off a white flower in early spring but mainly used for its beautiful leaves, which get very dense. Good for borders, above surface containers or in between rocks.

They do well in clay soil. evergreen but deciduous in colder zones. It grows up to 12" in height and has an off odor close up so  the deer will not get close. 

Planted and doing fine so far