Little Brown Jug

(Hexastylis arifolia)

Little Brown Jug (Hexastylis arifolia)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Asarum arifolium, commonly known as Little Brown Jug, is an evergreen perennial herb native to the rich, moist, deciduous forests and the shaded, humus-rich slopes of the southeastern United States, ranging from Louisiana to Virginia and extending inland to Kentucky. It is considered threatened in Florida. This plant typically grows to a height of 6-10 inches (15-25 cm) with a similar spread. Little Brown Jug has heart-shaped, hairless leaves that are a deep, glossy green and often mottled with silver variegation. The flowers, which are often hidden by the foliage, are jug-shaped, brownish-purple, and bloom in the spring. They are not particularly showy but are intriguing upon close inspection.

Little Brown Jug is valued for its attractive foliage and its ability to thrive in the shaded, moist conditions often found under trees, making it an excellent ground cover for woodland gardens and shaded borders. It requires consistently moist soil, rich in organic matter, and does well in part shade to full shade. While it is a slow grower, it is relatively low maintenance once established. It is not commonly afflicted by diseases or pests, but it can suffer from root rot if the soil is not well-drained. This plant is not known for its invasiveness and is generally well-behaved in the landscape.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.25-0.5 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Brown, Purple, Red
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Border Plant, Deer Resistant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Rich, moist, deciduous forests and shaded, humus-rich slopes in the southeastern United States

Other Names

Common Names: Heartleaf, Arrowleaf Ginger, Wild Ginger

Scientific Names: , Hexastylis arifolia, Asarum arifolium, Asarum virginicum, Heterotropa arifolia, Hexastylis arifolia, Hexastylis arifolum,

GBIF Accepted Name: