Asarum maximum aka Wild Ginger

Asarum maximum, or panda face ginger, is an evergreen perennial. It belongs to the Aristolochiaceae family and comes from China. Its native range includes the provinces of Sichuan and Hubei. It grows in forests with soil rich in humus. Recorded sites lie at 1,970–2,625 feet [600–800 metres] above sea level. In gardens, it suits shaded beds that copy woodland conditions.

This low plant forms a mat and spreads slowly. Garden plants reach 0.3–1.6 feet [0.1–0.5 metres] in height. Their spread falls within the same range. Plants take about two to five years to reach full size. The leaves are dark green and shaped like hearts. Some show pale green or silver marks across their surface. The evergreen leaves provide cover through the year. They also help make the plant useful beneath shrubs.

The flowers appear in spring and have three lobes. Their black and white pattern gives the plant its common name. Leaves can hide the blooms, so they may escape notice. Both the leaves and flowers add interest to shaded planting. The plant can serve as ground cover beneath roses or shrubs. It also suits pots and containers on a shaded patio. Its low form fits beneath taller garden plants.

Choose a sheltered site in full or partial shade. The soil should hold moisture but let excess water drain. Add humus to provide the rich soil this plant prefers. Acid to neutral soil suits it. It can grow in clay, loam, or sandy soil. The RHS rates its hardiness as H6. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 6–9. No pruning is needed. Divide plants in early spring to make more plants. Alternatively, sow ripe seed in containers without delay.

Slugs and snails may damage the plant, though diseases are uncommon. It has no recorded food use and should not be eaten. The RHS warns that eating it harms people and pets. It also advises gloves and other protection when handling plants. Plants For A Future records medicinal use in Vietnam. Reported uses include treatments for digestive complaints and sore throats. These records do not establish that home use is safe. Treat it as an ornamental plant rather than a food crop.