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Wild ginger

Asarum canadense

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The rounded, lustrous leaves of this native plant form an appealing green ground cover. This plant produces beautiful, 2- to 4-inch, glossy green heart-shaped leaves. In spring, you'll find interesting, mauve-purple flowers hidden under its foliage. -Marty Hair, Regional Picks: Upper Midwest, Fine Gardening issue #127

Noteworthy CharacteristicsThis plant's rhizomes have a ginger-like aroma. It spreads by underground stems.

CareWild ginger prefers fertile, moist, well-drained soil. Easy to grow.

PropagationSow seed in containers as soon as ripe. Some species self sow. Divide carefully in early spring.

ProblemsSlugs and snails. Rust and leaf gall.

  • Genus : Asarum
  • Zones : 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
  • Plant Height : 6 to 12 inches
  • Plant Width : 6 to 12 inches
  • Moisture : Dry to Medium
  • Flower Color : Green
  • Light : Partial Shade to Full Shade
  • Plant Type : Perennials
  • Uses : Shade
  • Growth Rate : Slow
  • Bloom Time : Spring
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest

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