Species

2 other cultivars

groundcover

Harper's Wild Ginger

Asarum harperi 'Eco Dark Heartlet'

The Story

Plant Bio

Asarum harperi, known as Harper's Wild Ginger, is a low-growing perennial with heart-shaped, mottled leaves and small, bell-shaped, dark-colored flowers that emerge close to the ground, creating a charming ground cover.

This cultivar, Eco Dark Heartlet, features particularly dark, almost black, foliage that enhances its ornamental appeal and its ability to thrive in shady, woodland garden settings.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round greenery and fragrant foliage in shaded gardens.

Erosion control on shady slopes; groundcover suppresses weeds.

Supports shade-loving native insects and wildlife.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

4 inches

Width

8 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moist

Humidity

Prefers moderate to high humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Early spring – Mid-spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in fall or early spring
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth
Place in shaded or partially shaded spot
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Water regularly in dry periods
Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor

Pro Tip

Ensure soil remains moist and shaded for best growth

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture
Divide in early spring or fall

Don't

Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves ❌
Do not let soil dry out completely
Avoid over-fertilizing

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland gardenMoist, shady borders

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Astilbes Toad Lilies

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Harper's Wild Ginger questions

What zones can Harper's Wild Ginger grow in?

Harper's Wild Ginger is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. 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 Wild Ginger deer resistant?

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

When does Harper's Wild Ginger bloom?

Harper's Wild Ginger typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Harper's Wild Ginger need full sun?

Harper's Wild Ginger does best in part shade.