Wild Ginger

Synonyms:   Canadian Wild Ginger

Scientific Name:   Asarum canadense


Spring ephemeral. Seeds have fatty appendages (elaiosomes) which attract ants that disperse seeds. Aromatic rhizomes have a ginger-like fragrance but are potentially carcinogenic and should not be consumed.

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Wild Ginger


Genus species: Asarum canadense
Common Names: Wild Ginger, Canadian Wild Ginger
Family Name: Aristolochiaceae  
Herbs or woody vines; leaves alternate, palmately veined; flowers bisexual, axillary and often solitary; fruit a capsule; family exhibits both monocot and dicot characteristics, and recent studies have placed Aristolochiaceae in a group called "paleoherbs," suggesting a close ancestral alliance with the monocots.
Seed Type Angiosperm
Origin:  
Native: native to North America.
Non-native: not native to North America.
Introduced Native: native to North
America, but not Rowe Woods.
* Definitions based on the USDA
terminology
Native
Category:Wildflower
Flower Color:Green/Brown
Identified by:A. Swanson
Months in Bloom  
The highlighted month(s) in this chart indicates the month(s) the plant has been observed blooming.
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun
Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

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