Asarum
Evergreen Groundcover, Perennial

USDA Zones: 4 - 8
Light: partial shade; full shade in Zones 7 to 8
Height:  6 to 10 inches
Width:  indefinite inches
Bloom Time: early - late spring
Special Features:
Attractive Foliage
Easy to Grow
Tolerates Wet Soil
US Native/Wildflower

Wild ginger is an excellent groundcover for shady areas and striking when interplanted with evergreen shrubs and wild flowers. All species of wild ginger form a dense, coarse-textured cover of dark green, heart-shaped leaves.

European wild ginger (Asarum europaeum) has shiny leaves, while Canadian wild ginger (Asarum canadense) and British Columbian wild ginger (Asarum caudatum) are more heat-tolerant and have larger, slightly hairy leaves. Shuttleworth ginger (Asarum shuttleworthii) has many varieties with beautiful silvery variegation.

These evergreen perennials bear unusual, reddish flowers in spring that are most often hidden by the foliage. All need shade and moisture to do well and prefer rich, moisture-retaining soil. They are hardy to Zones 7 or 8, depending on the species. Check labels.

Care
Does best in rich, slightly acid soils. Spreads best with plenty of moisture, but will tolerate drought once established. Protect from drying winds and water well, particularly if soil is well-drained. Plants become discolored with too much sun; move to shadier spot if necessary.

Planting
Plant established plants in spring in all zones or also in fall in Zones 7 and 8. Work plenty of compost into the soil at planting time. Space plants about 1 foot apart.

Pests and Diseases
Slugs and snails can cause problems.