Asarum canadense

Canadian wild ginger is a native form of ornamental ginger in the Aristolochiaceae family that spans Canada into the United States.

It has poor drought tolerance which requires high organic matter soil that maintains constant moisture. This plant prefers light to deep shade, and it is often found on rocky acidic soils. It does tolerate drought once established. It spreads slowly by and can be propagated through its fragrant underground rhizomes or through seeds. The tiny brown-purple flowers are hidden under the leaves and not of ornamental value, but they do attract pollinators with their sweet fragrance. They are also capable of self-pollinating.

The handsome foliage and high shade tolerance make it a great choice for a woodland, shade, or rain garden. Plant it as an edging or border plant and will easily naturalize as a deciduous groundcover in your garden. This plant tolerates deer browsing, wet soils, heavy shade, and erosion.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Slugs and snails can be occasional pests.