Also known as Wild Ginger · 938 saves
Asarum
Asarum, the genus most gardeners know as wild ginger. We track 67 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 24 most-saved Asarum varieties
See all 67 Asarum varieties →Search this genus →
5 species of Asarum
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Asarum in Sow
Save the Asarum you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Asarum
Whats common across all Asarum varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 40 most-grown of them.
The Asarum year
- MulchMarch and October100% of varieties
Apply 1-2 inches of organic mulch to retain soil moisture
- DivideMarch and September85% of varieties
Divide crowded clumps every 3-5 years to maintain vigor
- PlantMarch, April, September and October63% of varieties
Plant in spring or early fall in moist, shaded location
- Spring CleanupFebruary and March60% of varieties
Remove any winter-damaged or dead foliage before new growth starts
- Check for PestsApril–June33% of varieties
Monitor for slugs and snails, especially in wet conditions
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Prune dead or damaged leaves in early spring
- Mulch to conserve moisture
- Provide shade during hot summer days
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Avoid
- Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves ❌
- Do not let soil dry out completely
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t expose to direct, harsh sunlight
What goes wrong with Asarum
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Slugs | Irregular holes in leaves | Use organic slug bait or copper barriers |
| Root rot | Wilting and yellowing leaves | Improve drainage and reduce watering frequency |
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap |
| Slug | Chewed leaves and slime trails | Use organic slug bait or handpick slugs at night |
| Root rot | Wilting and yellowing leaves | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Leaf spot | Dark spots on foliage | Remove affected leaves and ensure proper spacing |
| Powdery mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Apply organic fungicide and improve air circulation |
Making more Asarum
Division
- Dig up mature plants in early spring
- Gently separate clumps with a sharp knife
- Plant divisions into prepared shady spots
- Water thoroughly after planting
- Allow 6 weeks for establishment
Seed
- Collect seeds after seed capsules mature in late spring.
- Sow seeds in shaded, moist soil in early fall.
- Cover lightly with soil and keep moist.
- Germination typically takes 4-6 weeks.
- Transplant seedlings once they are large enough.
Asarum questions
How many types of Asarum are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 67 distinct Asarum varieties. The most popular — ranked by 938 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Asarum grow in?
Across its varieties, Asarum covers USDA Zones 4–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Asarum bloom?
Most Asarum varieties bloom in early spring, late spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Asarum should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.