Overview
Asarum caudatum is a matforming herbaceous perennial in the genus Asarum, part of the Aristolochiaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Asarum caudatum grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and neutral and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden. It is native to W Canada to W USA.
About
Asarum caudatum is a low-growing, spreading evergreen perennial characterized by its glossy, heart-shaped green leaves that emit a spicy ginger scent when crushed. During late spring to early summer, it produces small, red-brown cup-shaped flowers, typically found beneath the leaves.
About the genus
Asarum comprises either evergreen or deciduous perennials that develop a network of rhizomes, creating a dense layer of long-stemmed, heart- or kidney-shaped foliage. Some leaves exhibit a distinctive silver mottling. The flowers are unique, featuring a three-lobed calyx in muted, earthy tones. Commonly known as wild gingers, these plants are not related to culinary gingers; the name derives from the spicy fragrance of their rhizomes.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Asarum
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral, Acid
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Asarum caudatum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Matforming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden
- Native to
- W Canada to W USA
- Fragrance
- Foliage
- Toxicity
- TOXIC if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. TOXIC to pets if eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Asarum caudatum
- Cultivation
- Best grown on neutral to acidic, moist but well drained soil in partial shade.
- Pruning
- No pruning required
- Propagation
- Propagate by division
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to slugs and snails
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Asarum caudatum?
Best grown on neutral to acidic, moist but well drained soil in partial shade.
Where is the best place to plant Asarum caudatum?
Asarum caudatum prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Asarum caudatum need?
Asarum caudatum grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral and acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Asarum caudatum?
No pruning required.
How big does Asarum caudatum grow?
Asarum caudatum reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Asarum caudatum hardy in the UK?
Asarum caudatum has a UK hardiness rating of H6.
How do I propagate Asarum caudatum?
Propagate by division.
Is Asarum caudatum toxic?
TOXIC if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. TOXIC to pets if eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers.