Asarum

(Aristolochiaceae - birthwort family)

Wild ginger. About 60 species of perennial woodland herbs. They are forest plants, and require moist, rich soil and partial shade. The types listed here have all shown the ability to tolerate periods of drought. The unusual but inconspicuous flowers are borne near the ground in spring. All spread slowly to form dense colonies, and make fine ground covers where conditions are suitable.

arifolium

evgrn peren • ht 6" • zones 5-9

arrow-leaved wild ginger; little brown jugs

new, edible, fragrant, ground cover, native, part shade - shade
s.e. U.S.

An evergreen wild ginger flowering in the late spring with a jug-shaped red brown flower. Leaves have distinctive triangular shape with dark blue-green leaves mottled in patterns of gray and silver, but can be variable in shape and variegation. A beautiful and resilient ground cover for the shade. Fragrant when bruised. An essential oil obtained from the plant has the odor of sassafras. Will grow in sandy to clay soils in more acid conditions, but must have good drainage.

cat # 1F1F
$9.95 each / 3+, $9.50 ea

canadense

peren • ht 8" • zones 3-8

wild ginger

Asarum canadense

native, edible, fragrant, ground cover, rock garden, part shade - shade
e and cent N Amer

Bears large, heart-shaped, dark green leaves. Spreads slowly, forming a solid cover. The creeping rhizome has a ginger-like odor and flavor, and has been used as a substitute for that spice.

cat # 1F1H
$9.95 each / 3+, $9.50 ea

canadense reflexum

peren • ht 8" • zones 3-8

short-lobed wild ginger

native, edible, fragrant, ground cover, rock garden, part shade - shade
e and cent N Amer

Like the species, above, but with smooth, semi-evergreen leaves and longer, more slender rhizomes.

cat # 1F1J
$9.95 each / 3+, $9.50 ea

europaeum

evgrn peren • ht 6" • zones 4-8

European wild ginger

fragrant, ground cover, rock garden, part shade - shade
Europe

An elegant plant with glossy, evergreen, dark green, nearly round leaves. Excellent ground cover.

cat # 1F1M
$9.95 each / 3+, $9.50 ea