Asarum canadense
Random fun facts:
- Back in the day, Native Americans used wild ginger in contraceptive formulas. It’s more commonly know as a diuretic or a stimulant.
- I find it ironic that its said this plant can cause mild skin irritation in some people, but at the same time, other sources say this plant is often used as an ingredient in deodorant. Greeeaaaat.
The Specs:
Family: Aristolochiaceae
Genus: Asarum
Species: canadense
Common Name: Wild Ginger
Region of Origin/Nativity: North America
Characteristics: This is rhizome spreading perennial groundcover that grows anywhere between 6 to 12″ tall and spreads up to 18″ wide. The leaves are simply and sort of a kidney shape. They are slightly pubescent and smell like ginger is you cut or rip them. Flowers are typically hard to see and not very showy. They hide under the leaves, are a brown color, and are cup shaped. The flowers develop into a fleshy fruit that split to release the seed.
Life Span: Herbaceous Perennial
Hardiness: USDA Zones 3 to 9
Cultivation requirements: Prefers woodland conditions for the most part. Partial shade to full shade, rich and moist soils, etc. It will tolerate average soils as well as drought conditions if in a good amount of shade.
Typical Pests, Diseases, associated problems: Slugs and snails maybe. For the most part there shouldn’t be any problems with this plant.
Propagation Method: By seed or by division in early spring just after they leaf out.
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