Hello,

The picture is of the Chameleon plant (Houttuynia cordata), which if it escapes the garden area that you wanted it in can be aggressive and difficult to remove. Read more here: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a638

And here: https://hvp.osu.edu/pocketgardener/source/description/ho_rdata.html

Constant removal is the only way to suppress this plant and controlling it is labor intensive. It is difficult because it spreads by rhizomes underground and by seeds. Hand weeding is difficult because the roots which run underground break easily if you dig them up. Any fragments that are left can form new plants. Do not compost the roots because they will continue to grow in a compost pile. Dispose of them in the trash Pulling up the shoots may slow the plant but will not remove it. You must be constantly aware of any new growth and remove it. This would deprive the roots of nourishment and eventually cause the death of the plant. This would require vigilance on your part; to keep the sprouts cut down whenever they reappear on the surface. More than one season may be necessary to be successful.

You could also smother the plants. Using paper mats that allow water and nutrients into the soil such as by cutting up leaf bags or newspapers (3 sheets thick), water the paper and cover with 2 inches of mulch for the winter. If there are desirable plants in the same bed, you would have to remove them while you are smothering the Chameleon plant. Unfortunately, because this plant is so persistent, it may take 12-18 months before the plant is successfully eradicated.

A chemical herbicide that lists this particular weed on its label or a nonspecific herbicide like glyphosate is another choice, but would have to be done when no desired plants are in the area. If using chemicals remember to read and follow all label directions.

Thank you for contacting Ask Extension.