Panax trifolius aka Dwarf Ginseng

Panax trifolius is a small perennial in the Araliaceae family. Its common names include dwarf ginseng and groundnut. It grows wild in eastern Canada and the United States. Its range includes northern states and parts of the southeast. It lives in temperate regions, in rich woods and damp clearings. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

Plants reach about 0.7 feet [0.2 metres] in height. They spread through runners, which may be rhizomes or stolons. This growth can extend beyond the plant's first planting spot. Below ground, the plant forms swollen, tuberous roots. Its leaves appear for only a short spring season. PFAF lists the leaf season as April to June. It also says leaves remain above ground for about two months. This brief display leaves a gap later in the year.

Flowers appear in April, during the short season of leaf growth. The species has both male and female flower organs. Yet individual flowers are often male, according to PFAF. The supplied sources give no further flower or fruit details. Its small size suits the low layer of a woodland garden. PFAF also lists it for food forest planting. Its short season matters when planning nearby plants and ground cover.

Grow it in moist soil with plenty of humus. It accepts sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It also tolerates mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline conditions. A shaded woodland site matches its stated needs. PFAF lists both full shade and partial shade as suitable. Its landscape notes favour dappled shade and shaded edges over deep shade. PFAF gives a USDA hardiness range of zones 3–7. Sow fresh seed in a shaded cold frame when ripe. Germination can be slow and uneven. Give seedlings deep pots to make room for their roots. Keep them under cover through their first winter. Spring division offers another way to raise plants.

The cooked root has a reported use as food. PFAF describes a nut-like taste once the boiled root cools. It records no known hazards, but that does not establish complete safety. The plant also has a history of medicinal use. These uses include whole-plant tea and roots used for pain. PFAF notes that this species has received little medicinal research.