Wild ginger (Asarum canadense)

Also known as: Canada snakeroot, Black snakeweed, Ginger root, Southern snakeroot, Vermont snakeroot

Wild ginger (Asarum canadense) is not related to the true ginger found in stores, despite their similar aroma. Caution is advised because wild ginger contains a harmful compound, aristolochic acid, which poses serious health risks.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Wild ginger

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

15 cm to 30 cm

Spread

10 cm to 15 cm

Leaf Color

Green Blue Silver

Flower Size

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Color

Brown Purple Red

Images of Wild ginger

Quickly Identify Wild ginger

Heart-shaped, matte green leaves up to 6 inches (15 cm) wide.

Brownish-purple, bell-shaped flowers hidden under fallen leaves.

Leaves with velvety texture, deeply veined, creating lush carpet effect.

Fruit is a non-showy capsule hidden beneath large foliage.

Seeds dispersed by ants through myrmecochory, hard-to-spot fruit.

Scientific Classification of Wild ginger

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Piperales

Family

Birthwort

Genus

Wild gingers

Species

Wild ginger

Planting and Growing of Wild ginger

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-70℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6-7

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Terracotta, Plastic

How to Water Wild ginger?

Asarum canadense, commonly known as Canadian wild ginger, requires a watering amount that keeps the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Aim to provide around 500 milliliters of water each time, ensuring the soil is damp to a depth of about one inch. This ensures the roots are adequately hydrated without drowning.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Wild ginger? ›

What should I do if my Wild ginger is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Wild ginger? ›

How to save an overwatered Wild ginger? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Wild ginger?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: 2 to 6 hours

Partial sun to full shade benefits Asarum canadense by promoting healthy leaf growth and preventing stress from sunlight overexposure while ensuring sufficient energy for photosynthesis.

What are the optimal light conditions for Asarum canadense? ›

How can I achieve the ideal lighting for Asarum canadense? ›

What are the benefits of providing ideal lighting conditions for Asarum canadense? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Wild ginger?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 70℉

Asarum canadense thrives best within an ideal temperature range of 60-70°F. This range offers the plant optimal conditions to support its lush foliage and natural growth cycle. Within these temperatures, the plant can perform effective photosynthesis, nutrient uptake, and maintain appropriate moisture levels, which are critical for its survival and development. Maintaining this temperature range helps in reducing plant stress and promoting a robust root system. Ensuring such conditions will aid in sustaining the plant's health throughout its growing period.

What Soil is Best for Wild ginger?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Peat soil

Soil PH: 6 ~ 7

Asarum canadense thrives in well-drained soil, which prevents root rot and allows the roots to access nutrients and water more efficiently. This feature enhances the plant's growth and overall health. The plant prefers consistently moist soil, which supports its lush foliage and vibrant appearance. Ensuring adequate moisture can promote optimal growth and prevent wilting. A rich content of organic matter in the soil supplies essential nutrients and retains moisture, which boosts the vitality and robustness of Asarum canadense.

How to Fertilize Wild ginger?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Asarum canadense, a light hand with fertilizer is key. During the growing seasons, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength. For slow-release granular fertilizers, a thin, even layer around the base ensures nutrients are absorbed gradually. Avoid direct contact with the leaves to prevent burning.

How to Prune Wild ginger?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Begin pruning Asarum canadense by examining the plant closely for dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves. Carefully snip them off using sharp, clean scissors, ensuring you're cutting close to the base without damaging the main stem. Next, trim any excessively long stems to promote a compact growth habit. Always prune in the morning or late afternoon to avoid stressing the plant with additional heat. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Wild ginger plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Late spring

Collect seeds from mature Asarum canadense plants in early to late spring. Sow them in seed trays with a mix of peat moss and sand. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and water gently to avoid displacing them.

In early spring, lift a mature plant gently from the ground. Use a sharp knife to separate the root mass into sections, ensuring each section has at least one bud. Replant the divisions immediately at the same depth they were growing before.

Once seedlings have developed a strong root system and a few true leaves, gently transplant them to a shaded garden area. Prepare the soil by amending it with organic matter to ensure good drainage.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Wild ginger plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Asarum canadense shows signs of needing a new pot when its roots begin to circle the inside of the pot or poke through the drainage holes. Another indicator is the slowed growth rate or if it starts wilting despite adequate watering. Ideally, you should repot during the spring as the plant begins to break dormancy and prepare for a new growth cycle.

Select a pot that is only one size larger than the current one to avoid excessive space that can lead to waterlogging. A pot with multiple drainage holes is ideal to ensure that excess water doesn't linger in the soil, which can cause root rot. This helps maintain the plant's health by preventing the roots from sitting in soggy soil.

For Asarum canadense, the ideal soil should be rich and well-draining, with a mix of organic matter like peat or leaf mold. This ensures the roots get sufficient nutrients while avoiding the risks of waterlogging and root rot. A well-balanced soil also supports the plant's natural growth habits, promoting lush foliage.

Toxicity of Wild ginger

Is Wild ginger toxic to humans?

Wild ginger has a mild toxicity that can affect both ingestion and skin contact. The leaves pose a significant risk; direct exposure can lead to dermatitis in certain individuals. Therefore, it is crucial to wear protective gear, including gloves and long sleeves, while handling wild ginger, and to thoroughly wash your hands afterward. While consuming small quantities of this plant is generally safe, frequent ingestion or large amounts may result in minor gastrointestinal problems such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.

Is Wild ginger toxic to cat?

Wild ginger, also referred to as Wild ginger, exhibits a low toxicity level for felines. Cats may experience poisoning if they consume significant portions of this plant. Following ingestion of wild ginger, symptoms that may suggest a cat is impacted can include general signs of physical unease or a disruption in their overall condition. Pet owners are advised to observe their animals closely for any appearance of abnormal behaviors or health issues and should swiftly pursue professional veterinary care. It is essential to act without delay by transporting the cat to a veterinary clinic for treatment to safeguard their health and facilitate recovery.

Is Wild ginger toxic to dog?

Wild ginger carries a low toxicity risk to dogs. If ingested in significant quantities, this plant can poison canines. Every part of wild ginger is toxic, meaning that eating any part, be it leaves, stems, roots, or seeds, could result in poisoning. Symptoms can vary, with common signs including gastrointestinal disturbances such as vomiting and diarrhea. It is vital for dog owners to keep a close watch on their pets and restrict access to wild ginger, especially if the dog is known to nibble on plants. Should a dog consume wild ginger, seeking immediate veterinary assistance is essential to secure the best possible recovery for the animal.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

More About Toxic Techniques→