Contents
Description
Asarum Canadense is a perennial plant that belongs to the birthwort family. It is native to North America and can be found growing in the eastern part of the United States and Canada. The plant is also commonly known as Canadian Wild Ginger due to the ginger-like smell of its roots.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Piperales |
| Family | Aristolochiaceae |
| Genus | Asarum |
Appearance
The plant has heart-shaped leaves that are dark green in color and grow up to 6 inches wide. The leaves are soft and hairy to the touch. Asarum Canadense produces small, bell-shaped, brownish-purple flowers that bloom between April and May. The plant grows up to 8 inches tall and spreads by rhizomes.
Care Guide
Asarum Canadense is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand. Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Asarum Canadense is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Asarum Canadense is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to slugs and snails, which can damage the leaves. To prevent slug and snail damage, apply a slug and snail bait around the base of the plant.
Habitat
Asarum Canadense can be found growing in moist, shady areas, such as woodland floors, stream banks, and ravines. The plant prefers cool and damp conditions but can tolerate some drought. It is native to the eastern part of North America and can be found from Newfoundland to Minnesota and south to Georgia and Alabama.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Asarum Canadense be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Asarum Canadense can be grown in containers as long as the soil is moist and well-drained.
Q: How often should Asarum Canadense be fertilized?
A: Asarum Canadense should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is Asarum Canadense a good ground cover?
A: Yes, Asarum Canadense is a good ground cover due to its spreading habit and low-growing nature.
Q: Can Asarum Canadense be propagated by division?
A: Yes, Asarum Canadense can be propagated by division in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Asarum arifolium
- Asarum europaeum
- Asarum maximum
- Asarum splendens
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Asarum Canadense. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287864&isprofile=0&basic=asarum%20canadense
- North Carolina State University Extension. (n.d.). Asarum Canadense. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/asarum-canadense/
- The Spruce. (2021). Asarum Canadense Profile. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/asarum-canadense-profile-3269302
