American ginseng

Garden uses

Attracts

Notes

American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is a perennial for shade gardens, woodland settings, and naturalized areas. It is hardy to USDA zone 4, or down to -30°F (-34°C). This plant likes full sun to full shade and average to moist soil. Each plant sends up a whorl of 3 large leaves topped by a cluster of small, fragrant flowers. The blooms smell like lily-of-the-valley, and birds visit the plant. Growth is slow, so be patient.

Pairs well with Woodland phlox, Cinnamon fern, Lungwort, and Sedge.

Native range

Eastern North America.