Asarum caudatum (Western Wild Ginger)

Asarum caudatum (Western Wild Ginger) is an evergreen rhizomatous perennial boasting shiny, heart-shaped, dark green leaves, 2-5 in. wide (5-12 cm), which exude a spicy ginger fragrance when crushed. In late spring to early summer, fascinating reddish brown, cup-shaped, three-lobed flowers, ending in long graceful tails, are produced beneath the foliage. Western Wild Ginger spreads by creeping rhizomes to create a beautiful carpet within a few years. While a strong spreader, it is not invasive. Deer resistant, its large leaves and low growth make it a magnificent groundcover to plant under shade-loving trees and shrubs. More drought tolerant than the other species, Asarum caudatum is also one of the few wild gingers that shows some slug resistance.

• Grows up to 6-8 in. tall (15-20 cm) and 12-18 in. wide (30-45 cm).
• A part shade to full shade lover, it is best grown in average, neutral to acidic, moist, well-drained soils. Adaptable enough to thrive in sites that are wet in winter and to soils ranging from sandy to clay.
• Western Wild Ginger makes a great ground cover for shady areas of woodland gardens and is perfect for underplanting shrubs , edging or containers.
• Virtually pest and disease free but keep an eye out for slugs and snails which could damage the attractive foliage.
• Native to western North America from British Columbia to California and as far east as western Montana.
• Asarum belongs to the Aristolochiaceae family, which includes notable species such as Wild ginger (Asarum canadense), Sierra wild ginger (Asarum hartwegii), Chinese wild ginger (Asarum splendens), and European wild ginger (Asarum europaeum).