groundcover

Delavay's Wild Ginger

Asarum delavayi

The Story

Plant Bio

Asarum delavayi is a low-growing perennial with heart-shaped, velvety leaves and distinctive, bell-shaped flowers that often display rich purple or brownish hues, creating a lush ground cover.

This species is valued for its striking, tubular flowers and its ability to thrive in shaded, woodland garden settings with moist, well-drained soil.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, evergreen groundcover with fragrant leaves, enhancing shaded garden areas.

Suppresses weeds and prevents soil erosion in shady spots.

Supports local pollinators attracted to its foliage and habitat.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

4 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8

Water

Consistently moist soil

Humidity

Prefers humid environments

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

China

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 into moist soil in early spring
Keep soil consistently moist during germination
Provide filtered shade for optimal growth
Mulch around plants to retain moisture
Transplant seedlings after they establish roots
Avoid disturbance during active growth period

Pro Tip

Maintain consistent moisture and avoid direct afternoon sun for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to retain soil moisture
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not expose to direct harsh sunlight in hot climates
Refrain from heavy fertilization in first year

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shady woodland borderEvergreen groundcover under trees

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Astilbe

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Delavay's Wild Ginger questions

What zones can Delavay's Wild Ginger grow in?

Delavay's Wild Ginger 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 Delavay's Wild Ginger deer resistant?

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

When does Delavay's Wild Ginger bloom?

Delavay's Wild Ginger 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 Delavay's Wild Ginger need full sun?

Delavay's Wild Ginger does best in part shade.