Asarum sieboldii aka Seonun Wild Ginger

Asarum sieboldii is a small perennial in the Aristolochiaceae family. It also goes by the name wild ginger. Another scientific name is Asiasarum sieboldii. Kew places its native range in the southern Russian Far East, Korea, and central and southern Japan. Plants For A Future also lists parts of China. The two sources therefore differ on its full range. It grows in temperate regions and is not native to Britain or Ireland.

This plant reaches about 0.7 feet [0.2 metres] in height. Its small size suits the edges of shaded garden beds. In the wild, it grows in conifer woods and mixed forests. It also occurs in dense shrub thickets. Chinese habitat records describe damp forest soils rich in humus. Those records span elevations of about 3,940–6,890 feet [1,200–2,100 metres]. The supplied species evidence gives no clear leaf or stem description. It also gives no mature spread or fruit details.

Flowers appear from April to May. Each flower has both male and female organs. Flies pollinate them, according to Plants For A Future. For cultivation, that source lists both full and partial shade. Its landscape notes favour dappled shade and shady edges. It lists sandy, loamy, and clay soils as suitable. The soil should drain well but stay moist. Mildly acid to neutral soil suits the plant. The source expresses doubt about its hardiness in Britain. Its further hardiness notes draw on the genus, not this species.

Seed and division offer two ways to raise more plants. Plants For A Future suggests sowing fresh seed in summer. A cold frame provides the setting it recommends. Stored seed needs three weeks of cold treatment before sowing. Seedlings need light shade and shelter through their first winter. Divide plants in spring or autumn. Keep divisions sheltered until they establish strong growth. Plants increase slowly, so building up a planting takes time. The source does not flag this species as weedy.

Plants For A Future records no known edible uses. It describes medicinal uses for the whole plant and root. These include traditional treatments for toothache, colds, and rheumatic pain. Such use carries a serious warning, not a safety assurance. Large doses of its essential oil can cause death. The supplied evidence names no specific pests or diseases.