perennial

Lutchu Asarum

Asarum lutchuense

The Story

Plant Bio

Asarum lutchuense is a low-growing perennial with heart-shaped, velvety leaves and small, bell-shaped flowers that typically bloom close to the ground, displaying subtle hues of brown or purple.

This species is appreciated for its ground-covering habit and its ability to thrive in shaded, woodland environments, making it ideal for shaded garden beds and rockeries.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides attractive, fragrant foliage that thrives in shaded gardens.

Prefers moist, well-drained soil, making it ideal for shaded woodland areas.

Supports shade-loving insects and contributes to native undergrowth ecosystems.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

4 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Moist

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Ryukyu Islands, Japan

Toxicity

Toxic, contains aristolochic acid

Bloom period

Late spring – Late fall

In flower about 7 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring
Keep soil consistently moist during active growing season
Provide partial shade for optimal growth
Mulch around plants to retain moisture
Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring
Protect from harsh winter winds

Pro Tip

Ensure well-draining, humus-rich soil and shaded location for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Apply a layer of mulch to conserve moisture
Prune dead or damaged leaves in early spring
Divide in early spring to promote healthy growth

Don't

Avoid full sun exposure ❌
Don't let soil dry out completely
Refrain from over-fertilizing, which can harm roots
Don't ignore pests or disease signs

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland gardenMoisture-loving border

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas AstilbeTrilliums

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Lutchu Asarum questions

What zones can Lutchu Asarum grow in?

Lutchu Asarum is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Lutchu Asarum deer resistant?

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

When does Lutchu Asarum bloom?

Lutchu Asarum 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 Lutchu Asarum need full sun?

Lutchu Asarum does best in part shade.