Species

2 other cultivars

groundcover

Callaway Ginger, Harper's Wild Ginger

Asarum harperi 'Callaway'

The Story

Plant Bio

Asarum harperi 'Callaway' is a low-growing perennial with heart-shaped, mottled green and silver foliage and small, bell-shaped, brownish-purple flowers that often emerge close to the ground.

This cultivar is prized for its striking variegated foliage and its adaptability to shaded, woodland garden environments, providing ground cover with a subtle, elegant appearance.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides attractive evergreen foliage and fragrant leaves, enhancing shaded garden areas.

Prevents soil erosion in damp, shaded spots.

Supports local pollinators and beneficial insects.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

6 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moist, well-drained

Humidity

Prefers humid environments

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southeastern United States

Toxicity

Contains aristolochic acid; toxic if ingested and can cause kidney damage. Not a substitute for culinary ginger.

Bloom period

Late spring – Late fall

In flower about 7 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a shady spot with well-draining soil.
Tuck seeds or divisions into the soil, spacing 4 inches apart.
Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist.
Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Mist cuttings or divisions every few days to encourage root growth.
In 6 weeks, new shoots should develop, indicating successful propagation.

Pro Tip

Ensure consistent moisture and shade for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Prune dead or damaged leaves during early spring

Don't

Avoid overexposure to direct sunlight ❌
Do not let soil dry out completely
Avoid heavy fertilization which can harm roots

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Plant
Propagate
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderEvergreen groundcover for damp areas

Companion Plants

Fern Hosta Astilbe TrilliumSolomon's seal

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Callaway Ginger, Harper's Wild Ginger questions

What zones can Callaway Ginger, Harper's Wild Ginger grow in?

Callaway Ginger, Harper's Wild Ginger is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Callaway Ginger, Harper's Wild Ginger deer resistant?

Yes — Callaway Ginger, Harper's Wild Ginger is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Callaway Ginger, Harper's Wild Ginger bloom?

Callaway Ginger, Harper's Wild Ginger typically blooms in late spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Callaway Ginger, Harper's Wild Ginger need full sun?

Callaway Ginger, Harper's Wild Ginger does best in part shade.