Wild Ginger Plant
Wild ginger plants are vining plants with heart-shaped leaves, which serve as a natural woodland ground cover. The flowers have small, deep burgundy to brownish blooms that sit at soil level.
These native perennials are pollinated by ground-dwelling insects, which is pretty unusual and adds to the plant’s old-forest charm. They work well for soil erosion and stop runoff due to their thick tangled roots
Another fascinating trait is its aromatic roots. When crushed, they release a spicy, ginger-like scent, though it’s not the same ginger used in cooking. Wild ginger also spreads slowly by rhizomes, creating colonies over time without becoming aggressive. It thrives in shade, tolerates rich, moist soils, and feels right at home beneath trees, giving gardens that calm, native woodland feel.
The Wild Ginger Plant known as Asarum canadense, is a lush groundcover with gorgeous, dark green leaves and a dark red, hidden flower underneath. It is a highly sought-after, native, herbaceous perennial that is hardy, disease- and pest-resistant. It thrives in shade and some filtered sunlight.
It's very popular in shade gardens and can be planted underneath shrubs for ground cover, beauty, and weed control as well as soil erosion.
The leaves are uniquely heart-shaped and are rounded, making a dramatic yet understated statement in the garden. This plant is subtly fragrant and has a deliciously spicy aroma.
Plant Details
Family: Aristolochiaceae
Light Requirement: Full Shade
Water Needs: Adequate
Height: 4 - 8 in.
Spread: 4 - 6 in.
Growth Rate: Slow
Bloom Time: Spring
Flower Color: Red
Wildlife Value: Attracts flies
Wild Ginger Plant Landscape Uses and Maintenance
The low-growing groundcover plant is a gorgeous native option for a ginger groundcover in your garden. It is a perennial plant that thrives in shade and performs exceptionally well when planted in well-drained soil. It is excellent for growing in large groups at the edge of your border or around specimen trees, in clumps around shrubs or other perennials as a filler, or in woodland gardens.
The ground cover is a lovely choice for an easily naturalizing plant that slowly spreads through your garden, eventually creating a dense, glossy green carpet. It spreads via rhizomes underground. Divide this plant in early spring to help this process, lifting the entire root system.
Once established, it will not require watering except in cases of drought. This plant is deer- and pest-resistant. Watch for the appearance of slugs and treat as necessary. You can use a small container of beer or a copper to trap them, or you can pick them off the old-fashioned way.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Wild Ginger will prevent weeds from receiving enough light to germinate due to their proximity to the ground. This plant can serve as an anchor for eroding soil. It is largely fly-pollinated and attracts them to its flowers.
Customer Reviews
I adore how it gently creeps via its rhizomes to form a low, cozy cover. Under my dappled canopy, it’s already softening the ground beautifully.
My Wild Ginger is thriving in deep shade, forming a plush, green cushion across my woodland border. Thrilled with how natural it looks—pure woodland magic!
In just a month, the Wild Ginger has quietly built up a lush mat under my shade tree. Leaves are plush and rich, but growth remains modest.
It arrived carefully bare-rooted, with firm rhizomes and clean foliage. Still waiting for full patch coverage, but it's off to a good start.
This plant settles in beautifully among hostas in my backyard woodland garden. It’s not flashy, but adds lovely natural ground cover—just takes its sweet time.
Does Wild Ginger like sun or shade?
Wild Ginger prefers shade or partial shade for best growth. It thrives in moist, rich soil and forms a lush, green ground cover. In the right shady spot, it grows easily and looks beautiful year-round.
Does wild ginger attract rodents?
No, Wild Ginger does not attract rodents. It’s mainly known for its attractive foliage and ability to thrive in shaded areas. This hardy ground cover stays neat and adds natural beauty to woodland gardens.
What not to plant next to ginger?
Avoid planting ginger near plants that need very dry soil or full, harsh sun. It grows best with companions that enjoy moist, shaded environments. Pairing it with ferns or hostas keeps all plants healthy and thriving.
Exposure
Wild Ginger thrives in partial to full shade, ideal for woodland gardens or shady areas under trees. It prefers low light conditions, where it can grow lushly and spread its attractive, heart-shaped leaves.
Height at Maturity
Under 12"
Usage
Groundcover
Shipped As
Bare root
Ships
USPS
Planting Zones
3-8
How To Grow
How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Perennials, Tubers, and Bulbs
Bare root perennials, tubers, and bulbs are an easy and economical way to jumpstart your garden with lasting beauty. These dormant plants should be planted in early spring or fall while the soil is cool and workable. Before planting, soak bare roots in water for 1–2 hours to rehydrate them. Choose a location based on the plant’s light needs—most flowering types prefer full sun, while others thrive in partial shade.
For bare root perennials, dig a shallow hole and spread the roots out naturally, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface. For tubers and bulbs, plant with the pointed side facing up at a depth about two to three times their height. Cover with soil, gently press down, and water thoroughly.
Keep soil consistently moist (not soggy) until new growth appears. Add mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but avoid covering the crown or bulb tops. Once established, these plants require little maintenance—just seasonal watering, occasional dividing, and deadheading or pruning as needed. With proper care, they’ll return and thrive year after year.
