Asarum maximum – Panda Face Ginger

Asarum maximum, often called panda ginger or black wild ginger, is an unusual and visually striking perennial groundcover native to China. Despite the nickname, it is not a true ginger but belongs to the Aristolochiaceae family, spreading slowly through underground rhizomes. What makes this plant truly extraordinary are its distinctive flowers—deep black-purple with bold white markings, reminiscent of a panda’s face.

We’ve grown this species for over 15 years and can confirm that it is a rewarding choice for shaded gardens. Its broad, glossy green foliage remains the star feature throughout the year, while its hidden, ground-level flowers remain a collector’s delight.

Origins and Natural Habitat

• Native range: Forest floors of China
• Habitat: Damp, shaded woodlands under tree canopies
• Soil preference: Moist, humus-rich, well-draining soil
• Traditional use: Roots were once included in traditional Chinese medicine. Today, cultivation is almost exclusively for ornamental and collector interest.

Thanks to its adaptation to shaded, consistently moist environments, Asarum maximum thrives in woodland gardens, shady courtyards, and urban container plantings.

Growth Habit and Appearance

Growth Habit and Appearance
Height: 10–15 cm (4–6 inches)

Spread: 30–45 cm (12–18 inches) over several seasons

Foliage: Heart-shaped, glossy, and evergreen in mild climates

Flowers: Unique, panda-like, near soil level—emerging in late spring to early summer

Best grown as a low-maintenance groundcover, this species forms lush mats of foliage that suppress weeds and enrich shaded planting schemes.

How to Grow Asarum maximum

Growing Asarum maximum is relatively easy if its basic needs are met:

• Light: Prefers partial to full shade. Direct sun can scorch the leaves.
• Soil: Rich, loamy, well-draining soil with high organic content is best.
• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, especially in the first year after planting. Avoid waterlogging.
• Fertilizer: Apply compost or a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring
• Mulching: Helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Propagation

Asarum maximum is most commonly propagated by division of established clumps which is very easy, or seeds, though the latter is slower.

• Division: In early spring or autumn/fall, lift established clumps and gently separate rhizomes with at least one growth point each. Replant immediately.
• Seeds: Sow in moist seed-starting mix, but germination can take several months. Stratification (cold treatment) may improve success.

Division is the preferred method for quicker results and maintaining the characteristics of specific cultivars.

Growing in Containers

Asarum maximum performs well in containers, especially in shaded courtyars, patios or balconies. Growing in containers does allow the plant to be lifted up so the the flowers that hide beeath the foliage can be seen.

• Pot choice: Wide, deep container with good drainage.
• Medium: Rich potting soil with added organic compost.
• Watering: Maintain consistent moisture with wet/dry cycles.
• Repotting: Refresh soil every 3–4 years; divide clumps during repotting to rejuvenate growth.
• Container growing is also ideal in colder zones, allowing the plant to be overwintered indoors.

Container growing is recommended for gardeners in colder climates who want to overwinter the plant indoors.

Hardiness Zones

• USDA Zones 6-9
• UK Zone 7
• Australia – Cool Temperate to Warm temperate

Common Pests

Slugs and Snails: The most frequent pests, they feed on the tender leaves—especially during spring when new foliage emerges—creating irregular holes and leaving shiny trails. Their damage is primarily cosmetic but can diminish ornamental appeal.

Control: Reduce hiding places (leaf litter, thick mulch), hand-pick at night with a flashlight, use beer traps as lures, or lay down mint leaves—repulsive to these pests. Barriers such as copper tape around pots can also be effective.

Disease Issues

Root Rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can cause rhizomes to rot, indicated by yellowing, wilting, or collapse of foliage. This fungal issue is fatal if not corrected.

Leaf Spots: Very rare but may appear if plants are overcrowded or air circulation is poor. Remove affected foliage and avoid overhead watering.

Environmental Problems

Leaf Scorch: Direct/hot sunlight can scorch leaves, causing browning at edges. Always provide full to partial shade.

Nutrient Deficiency: Poor growth or yellowing may indicate depleted soil. Top-dress with compost or use a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring.

Frost Damage/Winter Burn: In colder climates, sudden temperature changes may damage evergreen foliage. Damaged leaves can be removed in early spring.

Toxicity

Toxic if Eaten: Asarum maximum is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Always wear gloves when handling, and keep away from children and animals.

Notable Varieties and Related Species

Several varieties and cultivars of Asarum exist, but Asarum maximum ‘Ling Ling’ is the most popular due to its dramatic black-and-white flowers resembling a panda face.

Other Species in the Asarum genus that gardeners may enjoy include:

• Asarum canadense – A North American native with heart-shaped leaves and brownish flowers.
• Asarum europaeum – Known for its glossy, rounded foliage, often used as a shade groundcover in European gardens.
• Asarum splendens – Features silver-marbled foliage and grows a bit more vigorously.

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