Wild gingers - Asarum (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Wild gingers

Wild ginger gets its name due to its roots smelling very similar to the ginger that is used in cooking. Unfortunately, wild gingers are totally unrelated to regular ginger, and most parts of these plants are in fact, toxic. These plants typically have heart-shaped leaves and small, jug-shaped flowers - in some regions, they go by the common name "little jugs."

Scientific classification

Genus

Wild gingers (Asarum)

Family

Birthwort

Order

Pepper plants, birthworts, and allies

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15 cm to 45 cm

Spread

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 25 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Wild gingers

Species

Wild ginger Asarabacca Wild ginger British columbia wild ginger Hartweg's wild ginger Wild ginger Panda face ginger European ginger root Marbled wild-ginger

Quickly Identify Wild gingers

Heart-shaped glossy leaves with cream mottling.

Jug-shaped purple-brown flowers with fine hairs.

Aromatic leaves and roots resembling ginger scent.

Leaves measure 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) in width and length.

Veins prominently radiate from the leaf base.

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Care Guide for Wild gingers

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

5 - 25 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Wild gingers prefers consistently moist soil and high humidity, typical of its natural forest habitat. Weekly watering supports its health and lush foliage. Best in shaded areas, wild gingers thrives outdoors with natural rainfall but needs regular attention to watering even in off-seasons to maintain vibrant leaves.

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Learn More About Wild gingers

How to Grow and Care

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