Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense) | Prairie Restorations

Wild Ginger

Asarum canadense

Asarum canadense, known as Wild Ginger, is a low-growing perennial that reaches about 4 to 12 inches in height. It has heart-shaped, deciduous leaves and produces small, bell-shaped, maroon flowers near the ground in spring. Wild Ginger thrives in moist, rich woodlands and shaded areas with loamy soils. Historically, its rhizomes were used as a ginger substitute and for medicinal purposes, though caution is advised due to potential toxicity. In landscaping, Wild Ginger is appreciated as a groundcover in shaded gardens, providing lush foliage and soil stabilization.

Characteristics

Product Form	Plant
Type	Forb
Sun	Partial Sun, Shade
Soil	Clay, Loam
Moisture	Mesic, Wet
Average Max Height (inches)	12
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches)	12
Bloom month(s)	April, May
Bloom Color or Type	Red
Dominance	Medium

Range Maps

Sowing Information

Sow seed onto a firm, weed-free seedbed. Hand-broadcast seed making two perpendicular passes for even coverage. If planting a mix, broadcast the grass component first and lightly rake/drag it into the top 1/8–1/4" of soil. Next, broadcast wildflower/forb seed and press it into the soil surface (with a roller/cultipacker or the back of a rake) to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. After seeding, apply a very light layer of clean, seed-free straw (or other weed-free, site-appropriate mulch) to reduce erosion and retain moisture without smothering seedlings. A good rainfall or thorough watering will help settle seed and mulch and improve germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.