Quick answer: Canadian wild ginger (Asarum canadense) is native to 30 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 04 Nov 2026.
Photo: Fritzflohrreynolds, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part Shade, Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Moist |
| Soil | Moist, rich soils, pH 6-7 |
| Bloom | Bloom Apr-Jun |
| Height | Up to 8 in tall |
| Wildlife value | Attracts butterflies, larval host for Pipevine Swallowtail |
Touching this plant can cause skin irritation in some people
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (04 Nov 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 04 Nov 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Canadian wild ginger
Where is Canadian wild ginger native?
Canadian wild ginger (Asarum canadense) is native to 30 states across the Northeast, Midwest and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Canadian wild ginger bloom?
Canadian wild ginger blooms Apr-Jun. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Canadian wild ginger need?
Light: Part Shade, Shade. Water: Moist. Soil: Moist, rich soils, pH 6-7. Mature height: Up to 8 in tall.
Is Canadian wild ginger good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Attracts butterflies, larval host for Pipevine Swallowtail.
Is Canadian wild ginger deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Canadian wild ginger is deer-resistant and tolerates shade.
Is Canadian wild ginger toxic?
Touching this plant can cause skin irritation in some people.
Where can I buy real Canadian wild ginger seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 04 Nov 2026. Look for the scientific name Asarum canadense on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Canadian wild ginger.
- Eastern red columbine Aquilegia canadensis
- Sweet-fern Comptonia peregrina
- Indiangrass Sorghastrum nutans
- Dutchman's breeches Dicentra cucullaria
- Blue vervain Verbena hastata
- Heart-leaved meadow parsnip Zizia aptera
Also listed under
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