Wild Ginger
Wild Ginger has large heart-shaped leaves and a dense root system that work together to form a solid ground cover in the shade. An attractive red flower, often hidden from view by the foliage, blooms in early spring. Wild Ginger keeps …
| Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
|---|---|
| Soil Moisture | Dry, Medium |
| Sun Exposure | Partial, Shade |
| Height | 1' |
| Bloom Color | Red |
| Bloom Time | May, June |
| Spacing | 1' |
| Zones | 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 |
| Root Type | Rhizome |
| Benefits | Deer Resistant |
Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense) has large heart-shaped leaves and a dense root system that work together to form a solid ground cover in the shade. An attractive red flower, often hidden from view by the foliage, blooms in early spring. Wild Ginger keeps its beautiful foliage throughout the season, making it a good companion to spring ephemerals that go dormant after they bloom. It combines well with a host of other natives, such as Maidenhair Fern, Lady Fern, Ostrich Fern, Jacob's Ladder and Wild Blue Phlox - to name a few.
Once established, a ground cover of Wild Ginger can fend off Garlic Mustard and other invasives. Transplants spaced one foot apart will form a solid cover in two to three years. This deer resistant woodland native tolerates a variety of soil types, including clay.
Although not related to culinary ginger, the roots of Wild Ginger produce a scent that is similar to ginger. Fresh or dried roots were used by early Americans as a ginger substitute, but the plant is not normally used today for culinary purposes. Other common names include Woodland Ginger, Coltsfoot, Indian Ginger, Namepin and Sturgeon Potato.
