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#6819
WESTERN WILD GINGER
Asarum caudatum
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Hardiness Zone: 7-10 · Mature Height: 5-6 Inches · Mature Spread: 10-12 Inches
Asarum caudatum, known as Western Wild Ginger, is the woodland plant that rewards those who love subtle beauty and quiet magic. Its low, evergreen mat of dark, heart-shaped leaves creates a serene and luxurious carpet—softening shade gardens, nestling between ferns, and weaving through conifers with effortless poise. Brush the foliage and it releases a warm, gingery aroma, a delightful surprise that hints at the plant's historic culinary and medicinal past among Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest.
Beneath its refined foliage lies the plant's hidden charm: otherworldly, three-lobed flowers that appear to belong to an enchanted forest. These cup-shaped, burgundy-to-brown blossoms rest right at ground level, often tucked beneath the leaves like woodland secrets, complete with long, slender "tails" that curl gracefully outward. Blooming from spring into early summer, they add a layer of intrigue for gardeners who enjoy discovering tucked-away treasures.
Adaptable, cold-hardy, and naturally elegant, Western Wild Ginger thrives in moist, humus-rich, acidic soils and the quiet comfort of shade. Over time, its creeping rhizomes form a dense, cohesive groundcover perfect for woodland gardens, shady borders, native plant landscapes, and naturalized understories. Whether you're crafting a serene forest vignette or simply looking for a dependable evergreen groundcover, this native charmer brings texture, fragrance, and mystery in equal measure.
Family: Aristolochiaceae · Common Name: Wild Ginger
FREE with every plant purchased:
- The Sooner Guarantee: For details, click here!
- A pre-applied, pre-measured amount of time release fertilizer that keeps your plant well nourished for up to one year.
- Pre-hydrated Hydro-Gels are included in the top of each container to use when planting as they help retain soil moisture, and plants will establish more quickly with less transplant shock. Plants will also survive drought-like conditions and accidental missed waterings better.
- Planting and Care Instruction brochure.
- Catalogs of new and exciting plant brands, such as Garden Debut® and Proven Winners®.
We use and recommend www.dripdepot.com for our irrigation needs, from simple to install micro and drip systems, to commercial grade irrigation parts and supplies.
WESTERN WILD GINGER Plant Characteristics
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WESTERN WILD GINGER Homeowner Growing & Maintenance Tips
- Recommended Soil:
- Moist, humus-rich, acidic soil.
- High organic matter from leaf litter or conifer needles.
- Prefers well-drained but consistently damp woodland conditions.
- Sun Exposure:
- Open shade to deep shade.
- Avoid direct, harsh afternoon sun.
- Irrigation Needs:
- Likes regular moisture, especially during establishment.
- Keep soil evenly damp but never waterlogged.
- Mulch annually to retain moisture and mimic forest duff.
- Feeding & Nutrients:
- Benefits from annual top-dressing with compost or leaf mold.
- Avoid synthetic high-nitrogen fertilizers.
- Slow-release organic feeding in spring is optional but helpful.
- Pruning & Maintenance:
- Minimal maintenance needed; simply remove damaged leaves.
- Allow rhizomes to spread naturally for best groundcover effect.
- Monitor for slugs, which may feed on foliage.
- Do not disturb root zone heavily—rhizomes prefer to remain undisturbed.
Interesting Notes About WESTERN WILD GINGER
- Woodland Perfume: When rubbed, the leaves release a warm ginger fragrance—one of the plant's most beloved traits.
- Hidden Forest Blooms: Its long-tailed, mouse-ear–like flowers hide beneath the foliage like secret woodland creatures.
- Native Heritage: Used historically by Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest for aromatic roots and medicinal purposes.
- Evergreen Groundcover: Forms a dense, carpet-like mat through spreading rhizomes, perfect for natural shade gardens.
- Not True Ginger: Despite its fragrance and name, Asarum caudatum is unrelated to culinary ginger—it's in the Aristolochiaceae family.
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