European Ginger

European Ginger from the Asarum species, belongs to the Birthwort family. It’s common in deciduous and coniferous forests in North America and Europe. Most species of it are evergreens but a few are deciduous. Ginger should be planted in shady areas or in shade gardens and thrive in moist, rich, well-drained soil.

 

European Ginger's Bloom Season and Color

Depending on your variety of Wild Ginter, you will see flowers bloom in early spring to summer, although some species stop producing flowers as early as May. Variations of flower color range from deep maroon, brown, to fleshy white trumpets. The flowers are almost invisible because they grow underneath a dense layer of leaves.

 

European Ginger's Height at Maturity

Most species of it will reach about 6 inches in size and grow in a cluster 6 to 12 inches wide. This plant likes to form a symbiotic relationship with fungi.

 

European Ginger's Soil Type Preferred

It will need rich, moist, loamy soil. It must maintain a temperature of 65 to 70 degrees until it germinates in 2 to 4 weeks. When the seedlings get large enough, they can be moved into pots for their first year before planting in soil.

It needs to grow in partial or complete shade. Mature plants should be planted in the garden in late winter, a month before the last killing frost. Seeds can be started indoors before spring but have to be placed in the freezer for 3 weeks prior to planting in flats or pots.

European Ginger needs to be watered regularly and can be planted in shade gardens or among trees in foresty areas. Most species have heart-shaped leaves and hairy stems. Ginger grows in dense, dull-green mats six to eight inches in height.

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