Wild Ginger, Asarum canadense qt

Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense) is a shade-loving native groundcover with heart-shaped foliage and a dense root system that suppresses invasives like Garlic Mustard. Hidden red flowers bloom in early spring, while attractive leaves persist through the season, making it an ideal companion to spring ephemerals. Space transplants one foot apart for solid coverage in two to three years. This deer-resistant woodland native adapts to various soil types, including clay, and pairs beautifully with Maidenhair Fern, Lady Fern, Ostrich Fern, Jacob's Ladder, and Wild Blue Phlox. Once established, it requires minimal maintenance and creates a lush, natural understory layer. The roots emit a ginger-like scent—historically used by early Americans as a culinary substitute, though rarely used for cooking today. Also known as Woodland Ginger, Coltsfoot, Indian Ginger, Namepin, and Sturgeon Potato.