Asarum splendens

[ height 5-8 in., flower dark purple, part shade to shade, spreader ]

WILD GINGER This woodland ground cover spreads its heart shaped leaves easily, although at times slowly, in moist, slightly acidic, fertile soil with good drainage. A. splendens- Chinese Wild Ginger looks great along a meandering path or amongst rocks in the woodland garden.  The foliage is heart shaped, deep glossy green and is mottled with white silver.  Perusers of the unique and bizarre will enjoy the flowers of Asarum.  Hidden by the foliage are the somewhat fleshy, bell shaped, deep maroon flowers, said to attract carrion seeking insect pollinators.  Native to thickets and moist mountain slopes throughout southwestern China.