Asarum canadense, commonly called wild ginger, is a native spring wildflower which occurs in rich woods and wooded slopes throughout the eastern USA. Downy, heart-shaped to kidney-shaped, handsomely veined, dark green, basal leaves can be quite large (up to 6 inches wide). Attractive purple flowers are usually hidden from view by the foliage. A beautiful native groundcover for shade, also a great edging plant. Grows to 6 inches high in part to full shade.
Although not related to culinary ginger (Zingiber officinale), the roots of this plant produce a scent that is reminiscent thereof. Fresh or dried roots were used by early Americans as a ginger substitute, but the plant is not normally used today for culinary purposes.