Asarum

Wild Ginger

The wild gingers continue to attract attention from shade gardeners because of their beautiful, often evergreen, foliage that offers a partial cure for hosta fatigue. They are not as carefree as hostas (few plants are) but many gardeners are succeeding with them.

They can be very satisfying plants if their basic needs are met. If you have suitable conditions for woodland plants such as ferns and trilliums, you should be able to grow asarums.

• They absolutely require excellent drainage in humus-rich or gravelly soil.
• They do well in raised beds.
• They require shade, although the American species will tolerate morning sun.
• They are subject to attacks by slugs, and a number of fungus diseases such as botrytis and rhizoctonia, so good air circulation is important.

Asarums In Pots
Asarums are usually grown in pots in Japan. The flowers and foliage of asarums can easily be enjoyed at close range when they are grown in pots. Pot culture also allows tender species to be grown in cold climates. A coldframe, cold greenhouse, or a cold sunroom can be used, and wasted space under greenhouse benches can be put to use. Clay pots are best, and a well-drained soil mix is essential. Compost mixed with coarse sand, pumice, or perlite is fine. Peat moss holds too much water and should be avoided. Terrestrial orchid mixes can be used. Good sanitation is important, and repotting every year or two will help prevent disease buildup. Try to keep the leaves dry to avoid foliage diseases.

Classical Asarum Cultivars From Japan
The Japanese have selected special forms of their native asarums for hundreds of years. We are very pleased to be able to offer a few of these classical selections. They are normally grown as pot specimens, and some of these have been in continuous cultivation for about 300 years. Most are allied to A. takaoi and A. nipponicum. They are very expensive in Japan. Hardy in USDA Zones 6-9.