Species

2 other cultivars

groundcover

Harper's Heartleaf

Asarum harperi 'Velvet Queen'

The Story

Plant Bio

Asarum harperi, or Harper's Heartleaf, is a low-growing, evergreen perennial native to the southeastern United States. It forms a dense groundcover of glossy, heart-shaped leaves. In spring, it produces unique, jug-shaped, brownish-purple flowers at ground level, often hidden by the foliage.

'Velvet Queen' is distinguished by its exceptionally dark green, heart-shaped leaves that have a rich, velvety texture and often display a subtle silvery mottling, especially when young.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, evergreen foliage and early spring interest in shaded gardens.

Suppresses weeds under trees and shrubs, thriving in shady conditions.

Supports native woodland ecosystems and provides shelter for small insects.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

4 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moist

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

All parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested.

Bloom period

Early spring – Late spring

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds in shaded, moist soil in early spring
Keep soil consistently moist for best germination
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity
Transplant seedlings when large enough, after 6 weeks
Mulch around plants to retain moisture

Pro Tip

Provide shaded, moist conditions for optimal 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 in early spring

Don't

Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves ❌
Do not let soil dry out completely
Over-fertilize, which can damage roots

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

Shaded woodland borderFragrant groundcoverCool shady pathway

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Heuchera Astilbe Tiarella

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Harper's Heartleaf questions

What zones can Harper's Heartleaf grow in?

Harper's Heartleaf 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 Harper's Heartleaf deer resistant?

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

When does Harper's Heartleaf bloom?

Harper'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 Harper's Heartleaf need full sun?

Harper's Heartleaf does best in part shade.