About

Asarum maximum 'Silver Panda' is a low-maintenance evergreen perennial characterized by its tough, leathery leaves featuring vibrant green hues accented by silver patterns. This plant produces unique, lobed flowers in dark brown to black from late winter through late spring, each adorned with white markings.

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

Sunlight
Partial shade
Soil type
Loam, Sand, Chalk
Soil pH
Neutral, Alkaline, Acid
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial, Alpine Rockery
Habit
Matforming
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
0.1-0.5 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden
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

Cultivation
A compact alpine variety best grown in free draining soils in sun or partial shade
Pruning
No pruning required
Propagation
Propagate by division
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free