Perennials
Asarum splendens
Chinese wild ginger
Also known as: Splendid wild ginger
Large dark green leaves are splashed with silver. A low woodland groundcover with unusual, mostly hidden flowers at soil level. Keep the crown level with the soil.
At a glance
- Sun
- Part shade to full shade
- Mature size
- Height: 5–8 in. · Spread: 10–18 in.; spreads by rhizomes
- Water
- Consistently moist; well drained
- Hardiness
- USDA zones 5a–9b (grower rating)
- Bloom
- Brown-purple bells at ground level; spring.
Sizes & prices
- #1$24.99
Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.
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Resistance & tolerances
- Drought
- Keep evenly moist; not a dry-site choice.
- Wet soil
- Moist, well-drained soil; avoid waterlogging.
- Shade
- Tolerates heavy shade.
- Deer & rabbits
- Resistant, not browse-proof.
Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.
Keep in mind: Not culinary ginger. Do not eat any part.
Seasonal interest
- Foliage
- Evergreen to semi-evergreen; exposure affects winter appearance.
Growing & care
- Winter
- Shelter from wind and winter sun.
- Spread
- Can be difficult to remove; consider a contained planting.
- Maintenance
- Tidy dead or damaged foliage selectively; retain healthy green growth rather than cutting the whole plant down.
Sources & photo credits
Image notes: Silver-mottled foliage of Chinese wild ginger. species photograph; uncropped. Surrounding plants are not included.
Reviewed September 19, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.