Wild Ginger - Asarum canadense

Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense) is a lush groundcover with gorgeous, dark green leaves and a dark red, hidden flower that is found underneath the leaves.  This plant in native to most of the eastern United States.

Plant Details - Wild Ginger

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

Landscape Uses and Maintenance – Wild Ginger

Wild Ginger is a gorgeous native option for a ginger groundcover in your garden. It is a perennial plant that loves shade and does superbly when planted in well-drained soil.

Great for planting 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. You can plant this with Hosta, ferns, and Dwarf Fothergilla to create a harmonious flow in your garden.

This is truly a lovely choice for an easily naturalizing plant that will slowly spread 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, making sure to lift the roots entirely.

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.

This is a low maintenance plant that will keep a smile on your face year after year. Give plenty of water until established in your garden. Will not require watering once established except in cases of drought.

This plant is deer resistant and pest resistant. Watch for the appearance of slugs and treat as necessary. You can use a small container of beer to trap them, copper, or pick them off the old fashioned way.

No major disease problems.

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 their flowers.

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

Bloom Season

Spring

Bloom/Foliage Color

Purple

Height at Maturity

Under 12"

Care

Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense) thrives in rich, well-drained soil. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Mulch them to keep moisture and control weeds. Trim back old greenery in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.

Plant Reproduction

Wild ginger is spread by seeds and rhizomes.

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.

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