Houttuynia cordata ‘Plena’ (Orange peel plant) - Marginal Pond Plant - MP045

Houttuynia cordata 'Plena', commonly known as the Orange Peel Plant, is a unique and ornamental cultivar of Houttuynia cordata, valued for its distinct and fragrant flowers as well as its attractive foliage. This variety is known for its bold, creamy white and orange-tinted bracts, which resemble the peel of an orange, adding a striking and aromatic element to garden spaces.

Description

Houttuynia cordata 'Plena' grows to a height of 30–45 cm (12–18 inches), with a spreading, low-growing habit. The plant forms dense mats of heart-shaped, bright green leaves that provide a lovely backdrop for its unique flowers. The foliage is not as variegated as some other Houttuynia varieties, but it still offers a soft, attractive texture.

The main ornamental feature of 'Plena' is its fragrant, clustered blooms that appear in late spring to early summer. These flowers are not typical in shape, as they consist of small, inconspicuous yellow-green flowers surrounded by large, white, or creamy-orange bracts. The bracts resemble the texture and colour of orange peel, giving the plant its common name. The flowers are aromatic, and their citrus-like scent further enhances the plant's appeal.

Growing Conditions

Houttuynia cordata 'Plena' thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers consistently moist or waterlogged soil. It is ideal for planting along pond edges, in bog gardens, or in containers with water trays. It can tolerate shallow water up to 5 cm (2 inches) deep and grows well in a range of soil types, including loam and clay. Hardy in UK conditions, it is frost-resistant and can die back in winter, reemerging in spring with renewed vigour.

Propagation and Care

Propagation of Houttuynia cordata 'Plena' is typically done by dividing rhizomes in spring or autumn. As with other Houttuynia varieties, it can spread aggressively via its rhizomes, so it is important to manage its growth to prevent it from overtaking other plants. Growing it in containers or with physical barriers is an effective way to control its spread in smaller garden spaces.

Uses

In its native regions, Houttuynia cordata 'Plena' has culinary and medicinal uses. The leaves, with their distinctive fishy aroma, are used in traditional Asian dishes, though their strong scent may not be appealing to everyone. The plant also has medicinal properties, although it should be used carefully due to its strong flavour and potential toxicity in large quantities.

Ecological Value

This cultivar contributes to wetland ecosystems by stabilising soil along water margins, reducing the risk of erosion, and providing habitat for small creatures. The plant's flowers also attract pollinators, such as bees, and it helps support biodiversity in damp environments.

Considerations

While Houttuynia cordata 'Plena' is an ornamental and fragrant plant, its vigorous growth can make it invasive if not carefully managed. It may require regular thinning and containment to ensure it does not overwhelm other plants, especially in smaller spaces.

With its citrus-scented flowers, spreading habit, and attractive green foliage, Houttuynia cordata 'Plena' is an excellent choice for water gardens, bog gardens, or other damp areas. Its unique appearance, aroma, and ability to thrive in wet conditions make it a standout in naturalistic planting schemes, though it requires management to prevent uncontrolled spread.

Why Choose Houttuynia cordata ‘Plena’ (Orange Peel Plant)?

Houttuynia cordata ‘Plena’, commonly known as the Orange Peel Plant, is a unique and vibrant cultivar of Houttuynia cordata that brings striking foliage and colorful blooms to water gardens, ponds, and bog gardens. This plant is named for its citrus-like fragrance and its beautiful, multi-colored foliage, making it a wonderful addition to a wide range of garden designs.

1. Vibrant, Multi-Colored Foliage

• Features heart-shaped leaves with a mix of green, yellow, red, and orange, creating a bold and lively display throughout the growing season.
• The foliage becomes even more vibrant in full sun, adding a dynamic color contrast to your garden, especially when paired with other aquatic plants.

2. Unique, Fragrant Flowers

• Produces small, white flowers with a characteristic orange hue around the edges, resembling the peel of an orange.
• The flowers have a subtle citrus fragrance, which adds an extra sensory experience to your garden. These blooms appear in late spring to early summer, complementing the colorful foliage.

3. Ideal for Wet Areas

• Thrives in moist to wet soil and shallow water (up to 5cm/2 inches deep), making it perfect for pond edges, bog gardens, or water features.
• Performs well in full sun to partial shade, with brighter foliage colors emerging in sunnier spots.

4. Low Maintenance and Hardy

• A hardy perennial that requires minimal care once established.
• Tolerates cold winters, fluctuating water levels, and seasonal changes, making it an easy and reliable addition to damp or water garden settings.

5. Wildlife-Friendly

• Attracts pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, which are drawn to its sweetly-scented flowers.
• Provides shelter and habitat for small aquatic creatures, helping to create a balanced and biodiverse water ecosystem.

6. Spreading Groundcover

• Forms a dense, spreading mat of foliage, making it an excellent groundcover plant for moist, damp areas.
• Perfect for filling in gaps around pond margins or as a naturalistic groundcover in bog gardens.

7. Versatile Design Use

• Ideal for small water features, container water gardens, or damp garden borders.
• Complements other moisture-loving plants, such as sedges, irises, and rushes, to create a layered and dynamic garden design.

Key Features

• Height: 20–30cm (8–12 inches)
• Foliage: Multicolored mix of green, yellow, red, and orange
• Flowers: White with orange edges, blooming in late spring to early summer
• Soil: Moist to wet soil or shallow water
• Light: Full sun to partial shade

Houttuynia cordata ‘Plena’ (Orange Peel Plant) is a colorful, fragrant, and easy-to-grow plant that is perfect for adding beauty and interest to water gardens, ponds, and boggy areas. Its vibrant foliage, unique flowers, and adaptability to moist environments make it an excellent choice for any aquatic landscape.