Species
1 other cultivar
The Story
Plant Bio
Asarum lewisii, also known as Hexastylis lewisii or Lewis's Heartleaf, is a low-growing, evergreen perennial. It forms a dense groundcover of glossy, heart-shaped green leaves. In spring, it produces inconspicuous, bell-shaped, purplish-brown flowers at ground level.
'Flossie' is a distinct cultivar selected for its striking foliage. The glossy, dark green, heart-shaped leaves are highlighted by a dramatic pewter or silver overlay pattern.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
4 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
6, 7, 8
Water
Moist
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Southeastern United States
Toxicity
Contains aristolochic acid; toxic if ingested.
Bloom period
Early spring – Late spring
In flower about 3 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or divisions into shady, moist soil
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity
- Ensure soil remains consistently moist for best growth
- Mulch lightly to retain soil moisture
- Transplant in early spring or fall for best establishment
- Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch
Pro Tip
Keep soil moist and shaded for optimal growth and vibrant foliage.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Prune dead or damaged leaves in early spring
Don't
- Avoid drought stress by watering during dry spells ❌
- Don’t expose to direct, harsh sunlight
- Refrain from over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Lewis's Heartleaf questions
What zones can Lewis's Heartleaf grow in?
Lewis's Heartleaf is hardy in USDA Zones 6–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Lewis's Heartleaf deer resistant?
Yes — Lewis's Heartleaf is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Lewis's Heartleaf bloom?
Lewis's Heartleaf typically blooms in early spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Lewis's Heartleaf need full sun?
Lewis's Heartleaf does best in part shade.
More Asarum to compare
Arrowleaf Ginger
Asarum arifolium 'Spreading Form'
Cahaba River Wild Ginger
Asarum shuttleworthii 'Cahaba River'
Canadian Wild Ginger
Asarum canadense
Asteroid Sixlobed Wild Ginger
Asarum hexalobum 'Asteroid'
Faurie's Wild Ginger
Asarum fauriei 'Galaxy'
Harper's Wild Ginger
Asarum harperi 'Eco Dark Heartlet'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Lewis's Heartleaf with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.