Position
- Full sun to partial shade
- Protected from strong winds
- Ideal for pond margins, bog gardens, or moist borders
- Can grow as marginal aquatic plant in up to 5cm of water
Hardiness
- Tolerates temperatures down to -15°C (5°F)
- Dies back in winter but reliably returns in spring
Soil Type
- Prefers moist to wet soil
- Thrives in heavy clay or loamy soils
- Adapts to any soil pH (acid, neutral, or alkaline)
- Must be consistently damp
Soil PH
- Suits acid, alkaline, or neutral pH soils
- Grab a soil test kit and ensure the perfect conditions for growth
Height
- Height: 20-30cm (8-12 inches)
- Spread: 100cm+ (39+ inches) if not contained
- Can be invasive if not controlled
Seasons of Interest
- Foliage: Bright red to bronze-red leaves with green centres
- More intense colour in full sun
- Flowering: Small white flowers with bracts, June-August
- Aromatic leaves with orange-peel scent when crushed
Additional Notes
- Highly invasive – best grown in containers or barriers
- Excellent for water filtration in pond systems
- Can be used as ground cover in damp areas
- Leaves used in East Asian cuisine
- Best contained using deep root barriers
- Regular trimming helps control the spread
- Dies back completely in winter
- May need protection in the first winter
- Can be divided in the spring to propagate
- Particularly vigorous in wet conditions
- More striking red colouration than other varieties
Houttuynia cordata Flame: Introducing the Vibrant Flame for Your Garden
Are you looking to enhance your garden with a unique and vibrant plant? Houttuynia cordata ‘Flame’, commonly known as the flame plant, offers bright colours and versatility. It’s perfect for various settings for marginal areas, pots, and ground cover. This article will explore everything you need to know about Houttuynia cordata and why it’s worth considering for your outdoor spaces.
Why Should You Grow Houttuynia Flame?
Houttuynia cordata ‘Flame’ is a fascinating perennial that thrives in diverse environments. Its ability to grow in wet and dry conditions makes it a reliable choice for gardeners. The bright, heart-shaped leaves come in striking colours that add life to your garden. Not only does it thrive in pots and baskets, but it can also be a vibrant addition to your aquatics or bog gardens.
This plant also produces small white flowers during the blooming season, enhancing its appeal. Let’s delve deeper into growing and maintaining this versatile plant.
What Are the Ideal Conditions for Houttuynia Flame?
What Type of Soil Does It Prefer?
Houttuynia cordata ‘Flame’ thrives in a variety of soil types. It prefers moist, well-drained soil that retains some moisture without becoming waterlogged. You can grow it in rich, organic or heavier soils with good drainage.
In colder climates, ensure the soil can hold moisture during dry spells, as the plant performs best with consistent moisture levels. For water gardening, you can plant it at a depth of about 10 cm in your ponds or aquatic pots.
How Much Sunlight Does Houttuynia Flame Need?
Houttuynia cordata can adapt to both sun and shade. If you want to maximise its vibrant colour, try to give it a spot with some sunlight each day. Full sun or partial shade works well, allowing the plant to flourish.
If you notice wilting or fading colours, consider providing more sunlight. However, too much intense heat might affect its growth, so monitoring its condition is essential.
How to Plant Houttuynia cordata Effectively
When is the Best Time to Plant?
The ideal time for planting Houttuynia cordata is early spring or autumn. This allows for root establishment before the heat of summer arrives. 3-litre pots are easily available at most gardening centres or nurseries.
How to Properly Plant Houttuynia cordata
- Choose Your Location: Find a suitable spot based on the plant’s sunlight requirements.
- Prepare the Soil: Amend the soil with organic compost to improve moisture retention.
- Dig a Hole: Create a spacious hole to accommodate the root system.
- Place the Plant: Put the plant in the hole, ensuring it is at the same depth it was in its pot.
- Backfill and Water: Fill the hole with soil and gently firm it around the base. Water thoroughly to help settle the soil.
Caring for Houttuynia ‘Flame’
How Often Should You Water?
Keeping the soil consistently moist is crucial for Houttuynia cordata. If you’re growing it in pots, check the soil regularly. During hot, dry spells, you might need to water more frequently to prevent wilting.
Do You Need to Fertilise?
You can use a balanced liquid fertiliser every few weeks during the growing season to promote lush growth. However, avoid over-fertilising, which may harm the plant. Monitor its development; if you notice pale leaves, it might be time to add some nutrients.
How to Prune for Healthy Growth
Houttuynia cordata can spread quite vigorously, so occasional pruning can keep its growth under control. In late autumn, trim back any dead or overgrown stems. This will encourage bushier growth in the following season.
Combining Houttuynia ‘Flame’ with Other Plants
What Are Some Good Companion Plants?
Houttuynia cordata pairs beautifully with other marginal and aquatic plants. For a diverse aquatic setting, consider planting it alongside cattails, water lilies, or sedges. The vibrant foliage can also contrast nicely with ferns or shade-tolerant perennials.
How to Create a Stunning Garden Display
Mixing Houttuynia cordata ‘Flame’ with colourful flowering plants can elevate your garden design. Try pairing it with seasonal flowers that bloom at different times of the year to create a layered look. Consider planting them in attractive pots or baskets that complement their vibrant hues.
Mixing Houttuynia cordata ‘Flame’ with colourful flowering plants can elevate your garden design. Try pairing it with seasonal flowers that bloom at different times of the year to create a layered look. Consider planting them in attractive pots or baskets that complement their vibrant hues.
Common Problems and Solutions
What Pests Should You Watch For?
While Houttuynia cordata is generally resilient, gardeners should be vigilant for aphids or slugs. They should regularly inspect their plants and use organic pest control methods if necessary. Handpicking pests can also be an effective solution.
How to Handle Fungal Issues
To prevent fungal issues, ensure good air circulation around your plants. Avoid watering directly on the leaves, which can encourage mildew. If any fungal problems occur, remove affected leaves immediately, and consider using a fungicide if needed.
The Aesthetic Benefits of Houttuynia cordata Flame
How Does It Enhance Your Garden’s Appearance?
With its brightly coloured foliage and unique leaf shapes, Houttuynia cordata adds visual interest to your garden. Its vibrant hues can shift depending on light and moisture levels, creating dynamic colour changes throughout the seasons.
Why Is It Ideal for Marginal Areas?
As a marginal plant, Houttuynia cordata excels in areas that may not be suitable for many other plants. It thrives near water features and offers excellent soil coverage, making it a practical choice for controlling weeds while beautifying your landscape.
What to Expect in Terms of Growth
How Fast Does Houttuynia cordata ‘Flame’ Grow?
Houttuynia cordata is a vigorous grower that can reach a height of 30 cm. Under favourable conditions, it can spread significantly, making it perfect for ground cover. You’ll enjoy watching it flourish as it fills in gaps in your garden.
Will It Return Year After Year?
Once established, Houttuynia cordata ‘Flame’ is a reliable and returning perennial, meaning you can enjoy its beauty year after year. It can become a cherished part of your garden with the proper care.
From Darren’s Patch
There’s no denying the visual impact of Houttuynia cordata ‘Flame’ — those fiery leaves lift a shady corner or pond edge. I’ve used it in borders and boggy spots, and it never fails to draw comments. I’ve learned the hard way to keep it in check! These days, I always grow it in a container or with some kind of root barrier — it’s a great way to enjoy the colour without letting it take over. With the right approach, it’s a cracking little plant that brings bold colour where you least expect it. If you’re after something different that doesn’t mind getting its feet wet, ‘Flame’ is well worth a try.
Key Points to Remember:
- Houttuynia cordata thrives in moist, well-drained soil.
- It adapts well to sun or shade conditions.
- Regular watering and occasional fertilising promote healthy growth.
- Pruning helps maintain its vigorous nature.
- Use it as ground cover or combine it with other plants for stunning displays.
- It reliably returns yearly, bringing colour and texture to your garden.
Houttuynia cordata Flame, or the flame plant, is an exceptional choice for any garden, especially for those looking to enhance marginal spaces. Its vibrant foliage, adaptability, and easy-care requirements make it an excellent addition for gardeners of all skill levels.
Whether you prefer it in pots, bog gardens, or alongside your favourite aquatics, this plant delivers beauty and practicality. With the proper attention, Houttuynia cordata can transform your garden into a colourful paradise.
Check out the RHS article here.
For more information on Herbaceous Perennials for your garden, please click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Houttuynia cordata ‘Flame’ suitable for border planting?
A: Yes, ‘Flame’ is an excellent choice for borders thanks to its striking, variegated foliage and low, spreading habit. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and adds a bold splash of colour to the edge of beds and borders.
Q: How tall and wide does it grow?
A: ‘Flame’ typically grows to around 30cm tall and can spread to 1 metre. It makes an attractive and effective practical ground cover in the right conditions.
Q: Does it prefer sun or shade?
A: Houttuynia ‘Flame’ is quite adaptable. It grows well in full sun to partial shade, although some afternoon shade can help prevent the leaves from scorching in hotter areas.
Q: What soil conditions are ideal?
A: It prefers moist, rich soil that drains well. While it tolerates different soil types, keeping the ground moist will help the plant stay healthy and vibrant.
Q: Is it invasive in border settings?
A: ‘Flame’ can be vigorous and spread through underground rhizomes. It’s best managed in borders by using root barriers or planting it in containers sunk into the soil to contain its spread.
Q: How do I control its spread?
A: Check the plant regularly and remove any unwanted shoots. Installing edging or physical barriers will help stop it from spreading too far. Cutting it back if it grows beyond its bounds is also effective.
Q: Does it require pruning?
A: Yes, prune back dead or damaged leaves in early spring to tidy the plant and encourage new growth. Occasional trimming during the growing season can help keep it looking neat and under control.
Q: Is it hardy in the UK climate?
A: Yes, Houttuynia ‘Flame’ is fully hardy in most parts of the UK, tolerating temperatures as low as -15°C. In colder regions, a layer of mulch helps protect the roots from severe frost in winter.
Q: Does it flower, and when?
A: It does. Small, white flowers appear on short spikes in late spring to early summer. While the foliage is the main attraction, the flowers add seasonal interest.
Q: Is it suitable for wildlife gardens?
A: While not a top nectar source, the dense foliage can cover insects and small creatures, making it a valuable addition to a wildlife-friendly planting scheme.
Q: Where can I buy Houttuynia cordata ‘Flame’?
A: This plant is widely available from UK garden centres, particularly those with a good perennial range. It’s also easy to find from reputable online nurseries and plant retailers.