The Story
Plant Bio
Asarum forbesii 'Mercury' is a low-growing perennial with heart-shaped, variegated leaves and small, bell-shaped flowers that typically blend into the foliage, creating a subtle yet attractive ground cover.
This cultivar is distinguished by its striking silver and green variegation on the leaves, adding ornamental value and making it a popular choice for shaded garden borders and woodland gardens.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
4 inches
Width
8 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Prefers moist, humid environments
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
China
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested; contains aristolochic acid.
Bloom period
Early spring – Late fall
In flower about 9 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into soil in early spring for best germination.
- Keep soil consistently moist during establishment, about 2 weeks.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
- Plant in shaded or partially shaded areas with well-draining soil.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Divide mature plants every 3–4 years in early spring for propagation.
Pro Tip
Ensure soil remains moist but well-drained; avoid direct sunlight for best growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Prune dead or damaged foliage in early spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not expose to direct, harsh sunlight
- Refrain from heavy fertilizing; use in moderation
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Forbes' Asarum Mercury questions
What zones can Forbes' Asarum Mercury grow in?
Forbes' Asarum Mercury 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 Forbes' Asarum Mercury deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Forbes' Asarum Mercury, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Forbes' Asarum Mercury bloom?
Forbes' Asarum Mercury typically blooms in early spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Forbes' Asarum Mercury need full sun?
Forbes' Asarum Mercury does best in part shade.
More Asarum to compare
Arrowleaf Ginger
Asarum arifolium 'Spreading Form'
Cahaba River Wild Ginger
Asarum shuttleworthii 'Cahaba River'
Canadian Wild Ginger
Asarum canadense
Asteroid Sixlobed Wild Ginger
Asarum hexalobum 'Asteroid'
Faurie's Wild Ginger
Asarum fauriei 'Galaxy'
Harper's Wild Ginger
Asarum harperi 'Eco Dark Heartlet'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Forbes' Asarum Mercury with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.