Houttuynia cordata FISH MINT (plant)

Dokudami, fish mint, Chameleon Plant, or Houttuynia cordata in Latin, is a hardy perennial herbaceous plant native to Japan, Korea, China, and South Asia. In its natural habitat, it grows in damp and shaded areas. This aromatic spreading plant typically reaches an average height of 30 cm.

The foliage consists of heart-shaped leaves, measuring between 5 and 15 cm in length. This leaf shape has earned it the nickname "love herb." Its deciduous leaves are generally green, but they can also feature shades of red, particularly along the edges. The leaves release a distinctive scent, often compared to lemon, when crushed. Their texture is smooth and slightly glossy, adding to the plant's visual appeal.

The flowers appear in small inflorescences consisting of white flowers surrounded by colored bracts. These bracts can be yellow, reddish, or green, adding decorative charm. The flowers themselves are small and inconspicuous, with cup-shaped petals. Flowering usually takes place in summer, from June to September, attracting pollinators like bees.

Chameleon plant seeds are small and fine, measuring only one millimeter in length, and are black in color.

- Uses:

Asian Gastronomy and Atypical Flavours

Giáp Cá in Vietnam, is a staple of Southeast Asian cuisine.
With its unique scent reminiscent of coriander, orange, and a subtle hint of fresh fish, it is used as a fresh garnish to add character to dishes.
In parts of China (Yunnan, Guizhou), its roots are also enjoyed as crunchy root vegetables, offering a bold taste experience for adventurous palates.

The Chameleon of Wetlands

While the species is deep green, the 'Chameleon' variety is a living spectacle. Its foliage shifts colour in the sun, moving from yellow to orange and bright red.
It is the ideal ground cover for cool, damp, or muddy areas of the garden where few plants thrive.
Note: Its rhizomatous root system is extremely vigorous; it colonises space quickly. We recommend planting it in a container or a bordered area to fully enjoy its aesthetic.

The Survivor of Hiroshima

Houttuynia possesses a vitality that commands respect. It is famous in botanical history for being one of the very first species to have regrown and greened the scorched soil of Hiroshima after 1945.
This absolute robustness ensures a plant capable of adapting to tough conditions, making this "chameleon" a reliable choice for lining ponds or brightening shaded areas of your garden.

- Culture and Planting:

• Plant fish mint in a 2 to 3-liter pot, burying it just above the root collar, or directly in the ground.
• Ensure good drainage at the bottom of the pot with clay pebbles.
• Water copiously at the base.
• Choose a bright location without too much direct sunlight.

- Soil Type / Substrate:

It prefers well-drained, humus-rich soil that is high in organic matter. The substrate must always remain cool and damp, never dry.

- Humidity / Watering:

Dokudami loves water; it is necessary to water it every 2 days in the summer. In winter, irrigation is not needed as the plant enters a dormant phase.

- Exposure / Light:

This plant can adapt to different exposures but prefers partial sun. Light shade can be beneficial in very hot regions.

- Temperature / Hardiness:

It prefers moderate temperatures between 15°C and 25°C to thrive. It is a hardy plant that easily withstands winter temperatures of -10°C. While the aerial system will disappear in winter, the plant will regrow from its roots starting in April.

- Reproduction / Multiplication:

Chameleon plant can be multiplied either by dividing its rhizomes (by digging it up in the spring) or by sowing seeds.

- Diseases / Pests:

Forest coriander is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can occasionally be affected by aphids or mealybugs. Excessive moisture can lead to root mold problems.

- Maintenance:

A balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring to encourage vigorous growth. Prune the stems back at the end of autumn to encourage the root system to develop for the following year.

This article was written by Julien on 07/16/2026.