Also known as British Columbia Wild Ginger · British Columbia Wildginger · Long-Tail Wild Ginger
Western Wild Ginger (Asarum caudatum) is a shade-loving perennial with attractive heart-shaped leaves and unique, low-growing maroon flowers. It forms a lovely groundcove
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade
25% intensity
Thrives in dappled shade or partial shade, mimicking a forest floor.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Prefers consistently moist soil, but not waterlogged.
Loam, Sand, Clay, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers cooler temperatures and can tolerate light frost once established.
Low
25% intensity
Does not require frequent feeding; benefits from light organic compost.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot. In its natural habitat, it thrives in moist woodland floors.
Check the soil moisture by touch and water when the top 2-3 cm feels dry.
Pruning is typically minimal for Western Wild Ginger. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased foliage at any time of the year to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
No significant shaping is usually required as it forms a natural groundcover.
Propagation is primarily done through division of established clumps in early spring or fall. Gently separate the rhizomes, ensuring each piece has roots and at least one growth bud.
Alternatively, seeds can be sown in fall, but germination can be slow and erratic.
Repotting is rarely necessary for Asarum caudatum, as it prefers to be left undisturbed. If it outgrows its container or needs to be moved, repot in early spring or fall.
Use a well-draining potting mix with ample organic matter and gently replant the rhizomes at the same depth.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Western Wild Ginger (Asarum caudatum)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Piperales |
| Family | Aristolochiaceae |
| Genus | Asarum |
| Species | Asarum caudatum |
Similar in genus Asarum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
