Canada Wild Ginger

(Asarum canadense)

Canada Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Asarum canadense, commonly known as Canada wild ginger, is a herbaceous, perennial ground cover native to the rich, moist, deciduous forests of eastern North America, from the Great Plains east to the Atlantic Coast, and from southeastern Canada south to the Fall Line in the southeastern United States. It typically grows to a height of 0.5-1 feet and spreads 1-2 feet. The plant features heart-shaped leaves and small, bell-shaped flowers that are brown and purple, appearing in the spring and often hidden beneath the foliage. The flowers are not particularly showy, but they have an interesting jug-like shape.

Canada wild ginger is valued for its lush foliage and ground-covering ability, which makes it an excellent choice for shade gardens, woodland plantings, and naturalized areas. It is also used for its aromatic rhizomes, which have a ginger-like scent, though it is not related to true ginger (Zingiber officinale) and should not be consumed. The plant prefers part shade to full shade, consistent moisture, and well-drained soils rich in organic matter. It is generally low-maintenance but can be susceptible to slug damage. Canada wild ginger is not known for aggressive roots or serious disease problems, but it can spread over time to form a dense carpet, which is usually a desirable trait in shaded garden settings.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Water: Medium, High
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Rich, moist, deciduous forests of eastern North America

Other Names

Common Names: Canadian Wildginger, Canadian Snakeroot, Broad-Leaved Asarabacca, Asaret Du Canada, Asaret Gingembre, Gingembre Sauvage, Snicroûte

Scientific Names: , Asarum canadense, Asarum reflexum, Asarum acuminatum, Asarum canadense var. acuminatum, Asarum canadense var. reflexum, Asarum canadense var. canadense, Asarum canadense var. ambiguum, Asarum canadense f. canadense, Asarum villosum

GBIF Accepted Name: Asarum canadense L.