Asarum europaeum – European Wild Ginger – Aristolochiaceae (The Birthwort Family)

Description Asarum europaeum, the European wild ginger or asarabacca, is widely distributed in the woodlands of Europe. Similar to our native species, Asarum caudatum, it has attractive, even glossier, kidney-shaped to round foliage but with shaggy hairs on the creeping rhizomes and leaf stalks. Evergreen in mild climates. Combines well with lacy ferns and bleeding hearts. Intriguing brownish-red flowers appear beneath the foliage in late spring to early summer so make sure to watch for them. Leaves and roots are aromatic when rubbed or crushed with a ginger-like smell. Slow to establish but makes a stellar ground cover given time and a little patience. Plant along pathways, at the base of trees, and in woodland gardens.