Asarum canadense aka Canadian Wild Ginger

Asarum canadense is a low woodland plant called wild ginger. It belongs to the pipevine family, Aristolochiaceae. Its native range spans eastern and north-central North America. It grows from southern Canada into the eastern United States. Wild plants live in rich woods and on wooded slopes. They thrive in shade where the soil stays moist. Despite its name, this plant is not culinary ginger.

This herbaceous perennial forms a low, creeping ground cover. Underground rhizomes spread slowly and build patches over time. Garden plants reach about 0.5–1 foot (0.15–0.3 m) tall. They can spread about 1.5 feet (0.46 m) wide. RHS gives larger limits of 1.6 feet (0.5 m) tall and 3.3 feet (1 m) wide. The plant has little visible stem above the soil. Each shoot bears two basal leaves with clear veins. These green, downy leaves have heart or kidney shapes. They can reach 0.5 feet (0.15 m) across. The leaves fall away each year.

Small purple-brown flowers grow near the ground in spring. April and May are the main bloom months. Chicago reports a wider season, from March through June. Each flower grows alone between the paired leaf bases. Its cup has three pointed lobes that spread or curl back. The leaves hide most flowers from view. Flies and beetles pollinate them, though they can also self-pollinate. Small brown or green capsules appear in May and June. The plant also hosts pipevine swallowtail larvae.

Grow wild ginger in partial shade or deep shade. It needs soil that holds moisture but drains well. Soil rich in organic matter suits it best. Acid to neutral soil supports good growth. Dry ground does not suit this species. Sources list USDA zones 4–6, while Chicago gives 3–7. RHS rates its UK hardiness as H6. Use it beneath shrubs, along shaded edges, or in woodland gardens. It also suits damp rain gardens and helps limit erosion. Deer tend to leave it alone. Care needs are low, and pruning is not required. Slugs and snails may damage it, but serious disease is uncommon.

The roots have a scent that recalls ginger. Historical accounts describe their use as spice and medicine. PFAF also records flowers and underground stems as ginger substitutes. These reports do not establish that eating it is safe. NC State warns against consuming any plant part. Its aristolochic acid can harm kidneys and cause cancer. RHS lists it as toxic to people and pets. Reports differ on whether handling leaves can irritate skin.