Wild ginger (Asarum canadense)
Wild ginger, also known as Canada snakeroot, Black snakeweed, Ginger root, Southern snakeroot, Vermont snakeroot
Wild ginger (Asarum canadense) is not related to the true ginger found in stores, despite their similar aroma. Caution is advised because wild ginger contains a harmful compound, aristolochic acid, which poses serious health risks.
Key Facts About Wild ginger
Attributes of Wild ginger
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Herb
Plant Height
15 cm to 30 cm
Spread
10 cm to 15 cm
Leaf Color
Green Blue Silver
Flower Size
2.5 cm to 8 cm
Flower Color
Brown Purple Red
Scientific Classification of Wild ginger
Phylum
Vascular plants
Class
Dicotyledons
Order
Piperales
Family
Birthwort
Genus
Wild gingers
Species
Wild ginger
Toxicity
ingestion and direct contact with skin