British Columbia Wild Ginger
Asarum caudatum
Care
part shade
moderate
Medium; Woodland soil with high organic content.
1–1ft tall
Mar-May
Evergreen
Resistant
Friendly
Yes
Rhizome used as spice or flavoring; traditional Indigenous food
North Coast from Sonoma County to Del Norte County, below 2000 ft elevation, in redwood and mixed evergreen forests, extending to Oregon and British Columbia
Care Guide
Planting
Plant British Columbia wild ginger in deep shade or partial shade - direct sun will stress it out. Choose a spot with woodland soil rich in organic matter and medium drainage; if your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost before planting. Space plants about 1 foot apart since they spread via rhizomes to form colonies. Plant in spring or fall when the soil is consistently moist.
After Planting
Water weekly for the first summer to establish the plant, then reduce to once weekly or less during dry spells once established. The biggest mistake people make is planting this in too much sun or letting it dry out; it's a woodland plant that craves moisture and shade. Expect evergreen foliage year-round and delicate brown-purple flowers in spring (March-May). Minimal pruning is needed - just remove any dead leaves to keep the colony tidy.
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Wildlife Supported
Insects
Primary larval host plant for this specialized swallowtail butterfly
Caterpillar host plant for this rare swallowtail butterfly species
Nests and forages in soil and leaf litter around basal plant growth