Asarum canadense

Sometimes the potential for our native plants to thrive in our landscapes isn’t fully recognized or appreciated. I believe this is the case with wild ginger (Asarum canadense). Native to a broad range of eastern and central North America, this low-growing (6- to 8-inch) herbaceous perennial forms an amazing groundcover as rhizomatous roots create a dense network over time. While we still lean too heavily on the shade tolerant groundcovers of periwinkle (Vinca sp.), English ivy and pachysandra, this native groundcover will thrive in shade and part shade if adequate moisture and decent drainage are present. Wild ginger will struggle in full sun, poor drainage or in excessive summer heat. However, this deer and rabbit resistant plant will grow in clay soils and under walnuts. When crushed, the roots have a strong, “ginger-like” odor and were used for seasoning by Native Americans (hence the common name). This plant is unrelated to the ginger commonly used in cooking. Consumption of large quantities of wild ginger is not currently recommended due to toxicity issues.

PHOTOS: MARK DWYER

This plant features downy, heart-shaped, nicely veined, dark green basal leaves that, when emerging, show a white, fuzzy pubescence before they unfurl. The shallow-growing, fleshy rhizomes branch out to form a colonizing clump over time and look quite interesting when dormant. The solitary flowers appear at ground level in April and May and are bell-shaped, reddish-brown and feature three, reflexed tips. The blooms are usually hidden by early foliage so be sure to get a closer look. Thought to be pollinated by flies and beetles, the seeds that form later are dispersed by ants. As a groundcover, consider planting specimens 12 inches apart and let them create their collective carpet. Fall color on the foliage can be an interesting golden yellow at times. This plant is also a larval host for the pipevine swallowtail butterfly.

I’ve used this robust plant successfully in shade to create solid, mat-forming, groundcover groupings, interrupted by native ferns and infilled with a wide range of early-blooming spring ephemerals. With no serious insect or disease problems, wild ginger will thrive when happy (moist and well-drained soil is essential) and isn’t overly difficult to divide (spring or fall) and relocate or hold in check as desired. Consider the potential of this native groundcover that, while not uncommon in some of our forests, is surprisingly uncommon in our shadier landscapes.