Asarum splendens (Chinese Wild Ginger)

Not in the same family as culinary ginger, the common name derives from the fragrant scent released when the leaves are rubbed; flowers are cup shaped and spotted; variegated foliage creates an incredible effect as a groundcover.

Asian Wild Ginger is an herbaceous perennial with a ground-hugging habit of growth. Its relatively coarse texture can be used to stand it apart from other garden plants with finer foliage.

This is a relatively low maintenance plant, and should not require much pruning, except when necessary, such as to remove dieback. Deer don't particularly care for this plant and will usually leave it alone in favor of tastier treats. It has no significant negative characteristics.

Asian Wild Ginger's attractive glossy heart-shaped leaves remain bluish-green in colour with showy gray variegation throughout the season on a plant with a spreading habit of growth.

Asian Wild Ginger will grow to be only 4 inches tall at maturity, with a spread of 12 inches. Its foliage tends to remain low and dense right to the ground. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 10 years. As an herbaceous perennial, this plant will usually die back to the crown each winter, and will regrow from the base each spring. Be careful not to disturb the crown in late winter when it may not be readily seen!