Asarum caudatum, Wild Ginger

Native to the deep shade of forest floors, this evergreen perennial forms a handsome low groundcover less than a foot high. The large, deep green, heart-shaped leaves can make a dense carpet, creating a lush, almost tropical effect. The unusual flowers, which are hidden under the leaves, are normally dark purple/maroon, but occasionally white, with long spidery tails. It thrives in the deep shade under redwoods, competing well with the aggressive roots and dense duff. The ginger scented leaves are deer resistant.

In the garden this plant must have regular water and virtually no direct sun. It needs woodland soil with high organic content. Within California it is found primarily along the coast from Santa Cruz County northward.