Search Plants
Try for Free
English
About
Key Facts
How To Care
All Species
More Genus
Wild gingers (Asarum)
Wild ginger gets its name due to its roots smelling very similar to the ginger that is used in cooking. Unfortunately, wild gingers are totally unrelated to regular ginger, and most parts of these plants are in fact, toxic. These plants typically have heart-shaped leaves and small, jug-shaped flowers - in some regions, they go by the common name "little jugs." 
Lifespan
Perennial
Key Facts About Wild gingers
Feedback
Attributes of Wild gingers
Plant Height
15 cm to 25 cm
Spread
15 cm to 45 cm
Leaf type
Deciduous
Scientific Classification of Wild gingers
How to Grow and Care for Wild gingers
Feedback
Wild gingers are low-maintenance, shade-loving perennials, commonly known for their hardiness. They thrive in partial to full shade, requiring consistently moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Ideal temperature ranges are cool to moderate, avoiding extreme heat. Watering needs are moderate; however, soil should not become waterlogged. Common challenges include slug damage and root rot. Seasonal considerations involve mulching in autumn for winter protection and monitoring soil moisture in summer.
Exploring the Wild gingers Plants
Feedback
8 most common species：
Wild ginger
Wild ginger (Asarum canadense) is a ginger species that is not related to commercially available true ginger. The two may smell similar, but people should use caution because wild ginger contains a toxic compound.
Asarabacca
Asarabacca (Asarum europaeum) favors the moist, cool habitat around or beneath shrubs and trees where other plants might struggle. It is native to most of Europe but has been cultivated into beautiful varieties for landscaping. Although many sources title it "Wild Ginger," it is not related to real ginger.
Wild ginger
The roots of wild ginger (Asarum sieboldii) smell like ginger, but this low-growing herb is not actually a ginger species. The plant has distinctly kidney-shaped leaves and sports small, three-petaled dark red to purple blooms in the spring.
British columbia wild ginger
British columbia wild ginger is an evergreen perennial with heart-shaped leaves and reddish-brown flowers. Since it thrives in part to full shade, it makes a great ground cover for shady areas. It is native to the Northwestern United States.
Hartweg's wild ginger
Hartweg's wild ginger is a fragrant herbaceous plant that features heart-shaped, lustrous green leaves with prominent silver veining. It produces a peculiar maroon-colored flower and a fleshy fruit with numerous seeds inside. It grows at a very slow rate but can live for a very long time. It makes a wonderful groundcover.
Panda face ginger
Wild ginger gets its name due to its roots smelling very similar to the ginger that is used in cooking. Unfortunately, panda face ginger are totally unrelated to regular ginger, and most parts of these plants are in fact, toxic. These plants typically have heart-shaped leaves and small, jug-shaped flowers - in some regions, they go by the common name "little jugs."
Wild ginger
Wild ginger is a fascinating plant that captivates with its extraordinary features. This plant, native to wild ginger, is sought after for its unique ornamental qualities and medicinal properties. It boasts dark green, heart-shaped leaves that add a touch of elegance to any garden. What sets wild ginger apart are its curious flowers, hidden beneath the foliage, which emit a spicy scent to attract pollinators. Additionally, folklore tells us that wild ginger leaves were once believed to possess mystical powers. Marvel at the wonders of this enchanting plant!
European ginger root
European ginger root is a perennial herb with a low, ground-hugging growth habit, notable for its kidney-shaped leaves with a lush green velvet texture. The plant thrives in the shaded understory of deciduous European forests, where its inconspicuous, bell-shaped, dark brown to purple flowers emerge in spring, hidden beneath the foliage. Adapted to humus-rich, moist soils, european ginger root spreads through rhizomes, forming dense mats that cover the forest floor.
All Species of Wild gingers
Wild ginger
Wild ginger
Wild ginger (Asarum canadense) is a ginger species that is not related to commercially available true ginger. The two may smell similar, but people should use caution because wild ginger contains a toxic compound.
Asarabacca
Asarabacca
Asarabacca (Asarum europaeum) favors the moist, cool habitat around or beneath shrubs and trees where other plants might struggle. It is native to most of Europe but has been cultivated into beautiful varieties for landscaping. Although many sources title it "Wild Ginger," it is not related to real ginger.
Wild ginger
Wild ginger
The roots of wild ginger (Asarum sieboldii) smell like ginger, but this low-growing herb is not actually a ginger species. The plant has distinctly kidney-shaped leaves and sports small, three-petaled dark red to purple blooms in the spring.
British columbia wild ginger
British columbia wild ginger
British columbia wild ginger is an evergreen perennial with heart-shaped leaves and reddish-brown flowers. Since it thrives in part to full shade, it makes a great ground cover for shady areas. It is native to the Northwestern United States.
Hartweg's wild ginger
Hartweg's wild ginger
Hartweg's wild ginger is a fragrant herbaceous plant that features heart-shaped, lustrous green leaves with prominent silver veining. It produces a peculiar maroon-colored flower and a fleshy fruit with numerous seeds inside. It grows at a very slow rate but can live for a very long time. It makes a wonderful groundcover.
Panda face ginger
Panda face ginger
Wild ginger gets its name due to its roots smelling very similar to the ginger that is used in cooking. Unfortunately, panda face ginger are totally unrelated to regular ginger, and most parts of these plants are in fact, toxic. These plants typically have heart-shaped leaves and small, jug-shaped flowers - in some regions, they go by the common name "little jugs."
Wild ginger
Wild ginger
Wild ginger is a fascinating plant that captivates with its extraordinary features. This plant, native to wild ginger, is sought after for its unique ornamental qualities and medicinal properties. It boasts dark green, heart-shaped leaves that add a touch of elegance to any garden. What sets wild ginger apart are its curious flowers, hidden beneath the foliage, which emit a spicy scent to attract pollinators. Additionally, folklore tells us that wild ginger leaves were once believed to possess mystical powers. Marvel at the wonders of this enchanting plant!
European ginger root
European ginger root
European ginger root is a perennial herb with a low, ground-hugging growth habit, notable for its kidney-shaped leaves with a lush green velvet texture. The plant thrives in the shaded understory of deciduous European forests, where its inconspicuous, bell-shaped, dark brown to purple flowers emerge in spring, hidden beneath the foliage. Adapted to humus-rich, moist soils, european ginger root spreads through rhizomes, forming dense mats that cover the forest floor.
Marbled wild-ginger
Marbled wild-ginger
Marbled wild-ginger is a perennial herb prized for its ornamental foliage. The heart-shaped leaves are marbled with patterns of silver and pale green, enhancing its visual appeal in shady garden spots. This ground-cover species thrives under forest canopies, drawing nutrients from rich, well-drained soils. Its modest brownish flowers, often hidden beneath the leaves, emanate a subtle charm, blending with the understory's natural mosaic.
Asarum hypogynum
Asarum hypogynum
Asarum hypogynum is a low-growing, perennial herb that thrives in the shaded, moist soil of forest floors. Its heart-shaped leaves emerge directly from rhizomes, which spread horizontally to form delicate ground cover. During spring, asarum hypogynum produces inconspicuous, bell-shaped flowers nestled at the leaf bases, which often go unnoticed due to their earthy hue, blending seamlessly with the leaf litter.
More Popular Genus
Feedback
Dracaena
Dracaena are popular house plants that are easy to grow. They can tolerate low-light conditions and require little watering. Their leaves range from variegated to dark green. Their characteristic traits include woody stems that grow slowly but offer a striking appearance for small spaces such as apartments or offices.
Fig trees
Fig trees have been cultivated in many regions for their fruits, particularly the common fig, F. carica. Most of the species have edible fruits, although the common fig is the only one of commercial value. Fig trees are also important food sources for wildlife in the tropics, including monkeys, bats, and insects.
Brambles
Brambles are members of the rose family, and there are hundreds of different types to be found throughout the European countryside. They have been culturally significant for centuries; Christian folklore stories hold that when the devil was thrown from heaven, he landed on a bramble bush. Their vigorous growth habit can tangle into native plants and take over.
Maples
The popular tree family known as maples change the color of their leaves in the fall. Many cultural traditions encourage people to watch the colors change, such as momijigari in Japan. Maples popular options for bonsai art. Alternately, their sap is used to create maple syrup.
Prunus
Prunus is a genus of flowering fruit trees that includes almonds, cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, and apricots. These are often known as "stone fruits" because their pits are large seeds or "stones." When prunus trees are damaged, they exhibit "gummosis," a condition in which the tree's gum (similar to sap) is secreted to the bark to help heal external wounds.
Nightshades
Nightshades is a large and diverse genus of plants, with more than 1500 different types worldwide. This genus incorporates both important staple food crops like tomato, potato, and eggplant, but also dangerous poisonous plants from the nightshade family. The name was coined by Pliny the Elder almost two thousand years ago.
Roses
Most species of roses are shrubs or climbing plants that have showy flowers and sharp thorns. They are commonly cultivated for cut flowers or as ornamental plants in gardens due to their attractive appearance, pleasant fragrance, and cultural significance in many countries. The rose hips (fruits) can also be used in jams and teas.
Oaks
Oaks are among the world's longest-lived trees, sometimes growing for over 1,000 years! The oldest known oak tree is in the southern United States and is over 1,500 years old. Oaks produce an exceedingly popular type of wood which is used to make different products, from furniture and flooring to wine barrels and even cosmetic creams.
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants and unlimited guides at your fingertips...
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify grow and nurture the better way!
17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
Nearly 5 years of research
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
Botanist in your pocket
Scan the QR code with your phone camera to download the app
About
Key Facts
How To Care
All Species
More Genus
Wild gingers
Asarum
Wild ginger gets its name due to its roots smelling very similar to the ginger that is used in cooking. Unfortunately, wild gingers are totally unrelated to regular ginger, and most parts of these plants are in fact, toxic. These plants typically have heart-shaped leaves and small, jug-shaped flowers - in some regions, they go by the common name "little jugs."
Lifespan
Perennial
Instantly identify plants with a snap
Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.
Download the App for Free
Key Facts About Wild gingers
Feedback
Attributes of Wild gingers
Plant Height
15 cm to 25 cm
Spread
15 cm to 45 cm
Leaf type
Deciduous
Scientific Classification of Wild gingers
How to Grow and Care for Wild gingers
Feedback
Wild gingers are low-maintenance, shade-loving perennials, commonly known for their hardiness. They thrive in partial to full shade, requiring consistently moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Ideal temperature ranges are cool to moderate, avoiding extreme heat. Watering needs are moderate; however, soil should not become waterlogged. Common challenges include slug damage and root rot. Seasonal considerations involve mulching in autumn for winter protection and monitoring soil moisture in summer.
Exploring the Wild gingers Plants
Feedback
8 most common species：
Wild ginger
Wild ginger (Asarum canadense) is a ginger species that is not related to commercially available true ginger. The two may smell similar, but people should use caution because wild ginger contains a toxic compound.
Asarabacca
Asarabacca (Asarum europaeum) favors the moist, cool habitat around or beneath shrubs and trees where other plants might struggle. It is native to most of Europe but has been cultivated into beautiful varieties for landscaping. Although many sources title it "Wild Ginger," it is not related to real ginger.
Wild ginger
The roots of wild ginger (Asarum sieboldii) smell like ginger, but this low-growing herb is not actually a ginger species. The plant has distinctly kidney-shaped leaves and sports small, three-petaled dark red to purple blooms in the spring.
British columbia wild ginger
British columbia wild ginger is an evergreen perennial with heart-shaped leaves and reddish-brown flowers. Since it thrives in part to full shade, it makes a great ground cover for shady areas. It is native to the Northwestern United States.
Show More Species
All Species of Wild gingers
More Popular Genus
Feedback
Dracaena
Dracaena are popular house plants that are easy to grow. They can tolerate low-light conditions and require little watering. Their leaves range from variegated to dark green. Their characteristic traits include woody stems that grow slowly but offer a striking appearance for small spaces such as apartments or offices.
Fig trees
Fig trees have been cultivated in many regions for their fruits, particularly the common fig, F. carica. Most of the species have edible fruits, although the common fig is the only one of commercial value. Fig trees are also important food sources for wildlife in the tropics, including monkeys, bats, and insects.
Brambles
Brambles are members of the rose family, and there are hundreds of different types to be found throughout the European countryside. They have been culturally significant for centuries; Christian folklore stories hold that when the devil was thrown from heaven, he landed on a bramble bush. Their vigorous growth habit can tangle into native plants and take over.
Maples
The popular tree family known as maples change the color of their leaves in the fall. Many cultural traditions encourage people to watch the colors change, such as momijigari in Japan. Maples popular options for bonsai art. Alternately, their sap is used to create maple syrup.
Prunus
Prunus is a genus of flowering fruit trees that includes almonds, cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, and apricots. These are often known as "stone fruits" because their pits are large seeds or "stones." When prunus trees are damaged, they exhibit "gummosis," a condition in which the tree's gum (similar to sap) is secreted to the bark to help heal external wounds.
Nightshades
Nightshades is a large and diverse genus of plants, with more than 1500 different types worldwide. This genus incorporates both important staple food crops like tomato, potato, and eggplant, but also dangerous poisonous plants from the nightshade family. The name was coined by Pliny the Elder almost two thousand years ago.
Roses
Most species of roses are shrubs or climbing plants that have showy flowers and sharp thorns. They are commonly cultivated for cut flowers or as ornamental plants in gardens due to their attractive appearance, pleasant fragrance, and cultural significance in many countries. The rose hips (fruits) can also be used in jams and teas.
Oaks
Oaks are among the world's longest-lived trees, sometimes growing for over 1,000 years! The oldest known oak tree is in the southern United States and is over 1,500 years old. Oaks produce an exceedingly popular type of wood which is used to make different products, from furniture and flooring to wine barrels and even cosmetic creams.
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify grow and nurture the better way!
17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
Nearly 5 years of research
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
