Wild Ginger (Asarum Shuttleworthii)

Wild Ginger

Features and Characteristics

Asarum shuttleworthii, commonly known as mottled wild ginger, is native to moist woodlands in the Appalachian Mountains (Virginia to Georgia) and features evergreen (in mild winters), rounded to heart-shaped (4″ long), aromatic leaves which are usually mottled with silvery gray markings. Vase-shaped, 2″ long, purplish brown flowers with reddish purple spots inside appear in spring. Flowers are quite attractive on close inspection, but bloom singly on or near the ground and are usually hidden from view by the foliage. Rhizomatous plant that is very slow spreading. Although not related to culinary ginger (Zingiber officinale), the roots and leaves of this plant produce a scent that is reminiscent thereof. This plant has in the past been used as a ginger substitute, but it is not normally used for culinary purposes at this time.

Genus name comes from the Latin and Greek name.

Care and Maintenance

Grow in average, medium to wet, well-drained soil, in part shade to full shade. Prefers constantly moist, acidic soils in heavy shade. Not reliably winter hardy in the St. Louis area, so if grown here, it should be placed in a protected location and mulched in winter.

Wild Ginger (Asarum Shuttleworthii) Requirements

Hardiness zone	6 - 9
Sun light	Part Shade To Full Shade
Water	Medium To Wet
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Slugs and snails can be occasional problems.

Uses

Usually grown as a ground cover for shady areas. Also may be used for edging.

Wild Ginger (Asarum Shuttleworthii) Details

Common name	Wild Ginger
Botanical name	Asarum Shuttleworthii
Plant type	Herbaceous Perennial
Family	Aristolochiaceae
Hardiness zone	6 - 9
Water	Medium To Wet
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Purplish Brown
Flowering period	April - May
Height	0.50 To 0.75 Feet
Width	0.50 To 1 Ft.