Asarum europeaum
Asarum europeaum photo courtesy of Paridon Horticultural
European Ginger, Hazelwort

Asarum europeaum differs from our native Ginger by having smaller kidney-shaped glossy green leaves. It is a slow grower but will gradually form a really attractive dense mat. The odd looking bell shaped flowers are insignificant. This Ginger is a very valuable plant in a shade garden because its foliage compliments so many other perennials. It looks beautiful paired with small ferns, Epimediums and Tiarellas.

  • Height: 13 - 15 cm (5 - 6 in)
  • Spread: 25 - 38 cm (10 - 15 in)
  • Cold Hardiness: Zone 4
  • Sun or Shade: filtered shade
  • Bloom Time: spring
  • Leaf Colour: glossy green
  • Bloom Colour: brown
  • Critter Resistance: deer

Growing and Maintenance Tips

Asarum europeaum is easy to grow in rich, moist well drained soil in part to full shade. It prefers acidic soil and will tolerate a lot of shade. It spreads slowly by rhizomes to form a dense mat. It has also self seeded in our garden. It has no serious insect or disease problems although slugs and snails have been known to nibble on the leaves.

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