Family: Aristolochiaceae, Birthwort view all from this family

Description A low, evergreen herb, 3-6 in., with mottled, rounded-cordate leaves; the old leaves persistent. The solitary red-brown flowers are thick and fleshy, hidden under the leaves.

Flower May - July.

Flower May - July

Habitat Rich, moist, upland woods and ravines.

Range W. Virginia, south along mountains to Georgia and Alabama.

Discussion Some natural populations of this attractive ginger have short rhizomes and tend to form clumps, while others have long, creeping rhizomes and tend to spread. The latter make better ground covers.

Comments Slow to establish, but considered one of the more attractive gingers. Some natural populations have short rhizomes and tend to form clumps, while others have long, creeping rhizomes and tend to spread. The latter make better ground covers.

Exposure Preference Shade.

Native Distribution W. Virginia, s. along mts. to Georgia & Alabama

Site Preference Rich, moist, upland woods & ravines

Soil Preference Moist, fertile, acid soils. pH 5-6.