Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense)

Early spring-flowering, North American perennial
Description: Unusual, burgundy-brown, jug-like flowers appear at soil level, where they are pollinated by ants
Habit: Succulent foliage on 6 to 12 inch, mat-forming plants
Culture: Prefers shade and humus-rich soil; plant shallowly
Hardiness: Cold hardy to USDA Zone 3
Origin: North America
Attributes: Rain garden, Deer resistant

This herbaceous North American wildflower, called Wild Ginger on account of the ginger-like fragrance and flavor of the roots, was listed by John Clayton of Williamsburg in the early 18th century. The species was introduced to British gardens by 1713 and was reported by Peter Collinson in London. Wild Ginger thrives on the wooded slopes of Monticello Mountain where it forms dense carpets. It is a choice native perennial for shade gardens and tolerates browsing deer.

Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense) arrives in a 1 quart pot.