Family: Saururaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Houttuynia cordata (chameleon-plant) is a perennial herb native to East and Southeast Asia, including China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, and parts of India. It is a low-growing, spreading groundcover with distinctive heart-shaped leaves that are often green or variegated in ornamental cultivars. The plant has a strong, sometimes fishy aroma when crushed. It thrives in moist, shaded environments and spreads vigorously through creeping underground stems (rhizomes). It is grown as an ornamental plant for its colorful foliage and groundcover ability, and in some cultures it is also used as an edible herb and traditional medicinal plant.

Risks & Threats:
Chameleon-plant is known for its aggressive spreading habit, driven by fast-growing rhizomes that allow it to form dense, persistent mats. In suitable conditions, it can be extremely difficult to control or eradicate once established, and it may outcompete and displace native groundcover species, particularly in wet or shaded habitats. Its ability to tolerate a wide range of conditions and rapidly colonize disturbed areas makes it a concern for natural ecosystems. Although Houttuynia cordata is currently not known to be naturalized in the Hawaiian Islands, it does possess traits that are cause for concern, and which could detrimentally impact tropical island ecosystems. If this plant is being considered for cultivation, gardeners are encouraged to choose a low-risk or native alternative instead.

High Risk Traits:

• Grows in broad climates (zones 5–9) and altitudes (0–2500 m)
  
• Introduced intentionally as ornamental/vegetable (New Zealand, Hawaii, Vietnam)
  
• Naturalized in South Korea and Vietnam
  
• Listed as pest plant in New Zealand; forms dense, smothering colonies
  
• Shade tolerant
  
• Produces viable seed
  
• Self-compatible (parthenogenetic seed production)
  
• Reproduces readily via root/stem fragments
  
• Reaches maturity within one year
  
• Spreads unintentionally via equipment, garden waste, soil
  
• Spreads intentionally via horticulture and vegetable trade
  
• Tolerates mutilation; fragmentation promotes spread

Low Risk Traits:

• No congeneric weeds (only species in genus)
  
• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Non-toxic to animals and humans (edible)
  
• No fire hazard (moist/aquatic habitats)
  
• Narrow soil preference (moist, acidic loam)
  
• Non-climbing, non-smothering growth habit
  
• Not wind-, bird-, or animal-dispersed (no fleshy fruit or attachments)