Species

1 other cultivar

‘Flossie’Lewis's Heartleaf

groundcover

Carolina Carpet Wild Ginger

Asarum lewisii 'Carolina Carpet'

The Story

Plant Bio

Asarum lewisii, commonly known as Carolina wild ginger, is a low-growing perennial with heart-shaped, aromatic leaves and small, bell-shaped flowers that are usually brownish-purple, blending seamlessly with its foliage.

This cultivar, Carolina Carpet, is prized for its dense, spreading habit that creates a lush ground cover, making it ideal for shaded garden areas and erosion control.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, evergreen foliage that brightens shady areas year-round.

Suppresses weeds effectively in shaded garden spots.

Supports local insect populations with nectar and habitat.

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

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Early spring – Late spring

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into soil in early spring for best germination.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
Provide filtered shade to prevent leaf scorch.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring or fall.
Prune dead or damaged foliage as needed to maintain shape.

Pro Tip

Ensure soil remains consistently moist and shaded for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry spells to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Prune to remove dead leaves and promote healthy growth

Don't

Avoid excessive fertilization which can harm roots ❌
Don’t expose to direct, intense sunlight
Prevent soil from becoming waterlogged

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shady groundcoverWoodland border

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Astilbes

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Carolina Carpet Wild Ginger questions

What zones can Carolina Carpet Wild Ginger grow in?

Carolina Carpet 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 Carolina Carpet Wild Ginger deer resistant?

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

When does Carolina Carpet Wild Ginger bloom?

Carolina Carpet 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 Carolina Carpet Wild Ginger need full sun?

Carolina Carpet Wild Ginger does best in part shade.