Asarabacca
Asarum europaeum
Also known as European Wild Ginger, Hazelwort
Climate Match for your location
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A low-growing evergreen groundcover with heart-shaped leaves and hidden reddish-brown flowers that bloom close to the ground. It prefers shady woodland conditions and spreads slowly to form an attractive mat.
Why grow it
Asarabacca offers reliable evergreen coverage in deep shade where many groundcovers struggle, making it useful for woodland gardens and under established trees. It spreads steadily without aggressive invasiveness, and its subtle flowers and distinctive foliage provide textural interest in spaces where sun-loving alternatives won't establish. Compared to ivy or vinca, it tolerates drier shade conditions once established, though growth is slower.
Watch out for
This plant spreads gradually and may take several seasons to fill an area, requiring patience and initial weeding support. It performs poorly in wet or poorly drained soil despite shade tolerance, so site preparation matters. Young plantings benefit from consistent moisture during establishment, and older plantings may need division if they become crowded or decline in vigor.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Aristolochiaceae
Native Range
Central and Northern Europe
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Ground cover
Low spreading plants that carpet the soil.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A low-growing evergreen groundcover with heart-shaped leaves and hidden reddish-brown flowers that bloom close to the ground. It prefers shady woodland conditions and spreads slowly to form an attractive mat.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Asarabacca grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Asarabacca offers reliable evergreen coverage in deep shade where many groundcovers struggle, making it useful for woodland gardens and under established trees. It spreads steadily without aggressive invasiveness, and its subtle flowers and distinctive foliage provide textural interest in spaces where sun-loving alternatives won't establish. Compared to ivy or vinca, it tolerates drier shade conditions once established, though growth is slower.
Watch out for
This plant spreads gradually and may take several seasons to fill an area, requiring patience and initial weeding support. It performs poorly in wet or poorly drained soil despite shade tolerance, so site preparation matters. Young plantings benefit from consistent moisture during establishment, and older plantings may need division if they become crowded or decline in vigor.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Aristolochiaceae
Native Range
Central and Northern Europe
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Ground cover
Low spreading plants that carpet the soil.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar ground covers you might consider:
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