Wild ginger

Wild ginger is a workhorse of a groundcover, spreading readily with beautifully glossy, slightly heart-shape leaves. It must have shade and moist but well-drained soil to thrive, but with the right conditions this native plant is indispensable, doing well where many other plants wouldn't.

In spring it bears purplish maroon bell-shape blooms mostly hidden in the foliage.

Light:

Part Sun,Shade

Zones:

3-8

Plant Type:

Perennial

Plant Height:

4-10 inches tall

Plant Width:

6-12 inches wide

Landscape Uses:

Containers,Beds & Borders,Slopes,Groundcover

Special Features:

Attractive Foliage,Deer Resistant,Easy to Grow

Top Varieties

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Canadian wild ginger

Asarum canadense is a North American native with medium, green downy leaves. It requires regular moisture to look its best. It has better heat tolerance than European wild ginger. Zones 2-8
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European wild ginger

Asarum europaeum bears striking evergreen leaves that have a glossy sheen. Zones 4-8
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Garden Plans

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Little Fountain Garden Plan

Plant It With

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Astilbe

The feathery leaves and flower stalks of astilbe create a lovely foil for the medium texture of wild ginger foliage. Early summer blooms in red, pink, white, or lavender add drama to the show.

Hosta

Hostas of all shapes and sizes pair beautifully with wild ginger as a carpet around their bases. Both appreciate moist shade.

Japanese painted fern

The silvery fronds of Japanese painted fern make a great combo with either the glossy green leaves of European wild ginger or downy green foliage of Canadian wild ginger.

Propagation

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Division