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Description
Asarum Heterotropoides, also known as Chinese Wild Ginger, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to Japan, Korea, and China. It is a member of the Aristolochiaceae family and is known for its attractive foliage and showy flowers. The plant grows up to 12 inches tall and 12 inches wide and has a spreading habit. It is a shade-loving plant that thrives in moist, well-drained soil.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Piperales |
| Family | Aristolochiaceae |
| Genus | Asarum |
Appearance
The leaves of Asarum Heterotropoides are evergreen, heart-shaped, and glossy. They are dark green in color and grow up to 6 inches long and 5 inches wide. The flowers are brownish-purple and bloom from late winter to early spring. They are bell-shaped and grow up to 1 inch in diameter. The plant produces fruit that is a capsule with seeds inside.
Care Guide
Asarum Heterotropoides requires regular watering to keep the soil moist at all times. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The plant prefers shade or partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The most common pests that affect Asarum Heterotropoides are slugs and snails. They can be controlled with organic slug bait or by handpicking. The plant is susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Asarum Heterotropoides is native to Japan, Korea, and China. It grows in shady areas under trees or in forests. The plant thrives in moist, well-drained soil and prefers a cool, humid climate.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Asarum Heterotropoides be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as it is kept moist and in a shaded area.
Q: Does Asarum Heterotropoides require pruning?
A: No, the plant does not require pruning, but dead leaves and flowers should be removed as needed.
Q: Is Asarum Heterotropoides toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to pets and should be kept out of reach.
Q: Can Asarum Heterotropoides be propagated?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated by division or by seed.
Related Plants
- Asarum canadense
- Asarum europaeum
- Asarum maximum
- Asarum sieboldii
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/groundcover/chinese-wild-ginger/chinese-wild-ginger-plant.htm
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c611
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/asarum-heterotropoides-chinese-wild-ginger
