Panda Plant Asarum maximum
ABOUT
The plant known commonly as Giant Panda Ginger is characterized by its distinctive foliage and striking bloom. Each leaf is heart-shaped, often with a deep, rich green color that can have a velvety or glossy texture. The leaves are substantial and can appear somewhat leathery, showcasing a lush appearance. In contrast to the verdant leaves, the flowers are notably dramatic and are what most make the plant stand out. They possess a large, cup-like structure, usually in shades of deep burgundy or brown, with a striking white or cream-colored center that bears a resemblance to the face of a panda, thus contributing to its common name. The contrast between the dark exterior and the light interior of the flowers can be quite stark and visually appealing. These blooms typically nestle at the base of the plant, sometimes nearly hidden amongst the foliage. The flower's interior often has intricate patterns that add to its ornamental value. Because of their position and shade-loving nature, you might sometimes have to look closely to spot these interesting blooms. Overall, the Giant Panda Ginger has a commanding presence in any shade garden, with its unique and aesthetically pleasing features that make it a sought-after plant for gardeners and plant enthusiasts.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Aristolochiaceae
Synonyms
Large-Flowered Wild Ginger, Panda Ginger
Common names
Asarum maximum.
ToxicityTo humans
Asarum maximum, commonly known as Large Wild Ginger, is not widely reported to be toxic to humans. However, the plant may contain compounds that are irritating to the skin and mucous membranes. Ingesting parts of the plant, particularly in large quantities, could potentially cause stomach upset or more serious effects due to the presence of aristolochic acids, which have been found in some Asarum species. These acids are known carcinogens and can cause kidney damage. The risk from casual contact or ingestion in small amounts is low, but care should be taken to avoid consuming any part of the plant.
To pets
Large Wild Ginger, the common name for Asarum maximum, can potentially have toxic effects on pets if ingested. The plant may contain aristolochic acids, found in some Asarum species, which are toxic to animals. Symptoms of poisoning in pets can include vomiting, abdominal pain, kidney damage, and possibly symptoms related to carcinogenic effects. It's important for pet owners to prevent their pets from ingesting any part of the plant and to seek veterinary care if ingestion is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Burgundy
Height
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Spread
1 feet (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Asarum maximum, commonly known as "Large Panda Face Ginger," has unique, ornamental foliage and flowers that add visual interest to shade gardens or woodland settings.
- Ground Cover: It is effective at covering the ground in shady areas, helping to suppress weeds and reduce soil erosion.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal care and can thrive with just occasional watering and removal of dead leaves.
- Natural Habitat Support: It provides natural cover and habitat for small wildlife, such as beneficial insects and small animals.
- Drought Tolerance: Asarum maximum is relatively drought-tolerant after establishment, making it suitable for gardens with limited water availability.
- Cold Hardy: It is capable of withstanding cold temperatures, which makes it suitable for planting in a variety of temperate climates.
Medical Properties- Antitussive: Asarum maximum has been traditionally used to help reduce coughing.
- Expectorant: The plant may have properties that promote the clearing of mucus from the respiratory tract.
- Anti-inflammatory: There are indications it might possess anti-inflammatory effects, potentially reducing swelling and pain in certain conditions.
- Analgesic: Asarum maximum might be used to relieve pain, according to traditional use.
- Antifungal: Some compounds in the plant are believed to have antifungal properties.
- Antioxidant: The plant may contain antioxidants which can help in preventing oxidative stress and damage to cells.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Asarum maximum, commonly known as large wild ginger, can be used as a ground cover in shaded garden areas due to its low-growing nature and attractive, heart-shaped leaves.
- The strikingly patterned leaves of large wild ginger can provide a unique aesthetic to terrariums or shaded container gardens.
- Some crafters use the large, ornate leaves of the large wild ginger plant to create botanical prints or to press into clay for decorative imprints.
- Due to its aromatic rhizomes, large wild ginger can be incorporated into potpourris, providing a natural and subtle woodland scent.
- Gardeners may use large wild ginger as a living mulch to suppress weeds and maintain soil moisture in forested or woodland landscapes.
- In natural dye-making, the roots of large wild ginger can be experimented with for hue extraction, although they are not a traditional dye plant.
- Large wild ginger's dense foliage can serve as a habitat for beneficial garden insects and small fauna, contributing to biodiversity.
- In landscaping, large wild ginger can be utilized to stabilize soil on slopes or shady banks due to its rhizomatous growth.
- The plant can be used in sensory gardens for educational purposes, as it offers a unique tactile and aromatic experience when touched.
- Culinary enthusiasts sometimes use the leaves of large wild ginger to wrap food, adding an exotic touch to garden-themed gastronomy, even though the plant itself is not edible.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Asarum maximum, commonly known as large ginger, is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Asarum maximum, commonly known as large ginger, is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Mystery and Secrecy: Asarum maximum, commonly known as panda plant, often grows in shaded, hidden areas, representing things that are concealed or mysterious.
- Grounding: As a ground cover plant, the panda plant is symbolic of staying grounded and connected to one's roots or foundation.
- Protection: With its robust nature and capability to spread, the panda plant can symbolize protection and the idea of safeguarding what is valuable.
- Subtle Beauty: The panda plant boasts subtle yet attractive flowers, reminding us of the understated beauty in life and valuing the modest over the showy.
WaterThe Panda Plant, or Asarum maximum, generally prefers consistently moist soil, so it should be watered when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. This can equate to watering approximately once every week, but frequency can vary depending on the humidity and temperature of your environment. Use room temperature water and gently water the soil until it is evenly moist but not soggy. In terms of volume, for an average-sized houseplant, this can be around 16-24 ounces. Always ensure that there is proper drainage to prevent water from accumulating at the base of the pot, which can lead to root rot.
LightThe Panda Plant thrives best in partial shade to full shade conditions. It should be placed in a location where it can receive bright, indirect light, but avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves. An ideal spot could be near a north-facing window or in a room with filtered light. Avoid placing Asarum maximum under the harsh midday sun as it naturally grows under the canopy of larger plants in its habitat.
TemperatureThe Panda Plant prefers a temperature range from 60°F to 75°F and should be protected from extreme temperature fluctuations. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 50°F, but frost or temperatures below this can damage the plant. Ideally, keep your Asarum maximum in an environment that does not exceed 80°F as high temperatures can also stress the plant.
PruningPruning is generally not necessary for the Panda Plant. It maintains a compact form and does not require regular cutting back. However, you may remove any yellow or damaged leaves as they appear to keep the plant looking its best and to prevent potential disease spread. The best time for this minor pruning is in the spring or as needed when you observe unhealthy foliage.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Panda Plant (Asarum maximum) should be rich, moist, well-draining, and slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. A mix of garden soil, leaf mold, and perlite or sand can improve drainage and mimic its natural forest floor environment.
RepottingPanda Plants (Asarum maximum) typically need repotting every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. It's best to repot in spring before the growing season.
Humidity & MistingPanda Plant (Asarum maximum) thrives in high humidity conditions, similar to its natural understory habitat. Aim for humidity levels between 60-80% for optimal growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow Panda Plant in shade, humus-rich soil.
Outdoor
Plant in shade, moist, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
6-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Asarum maximum, commonly known as Large Wild Ginger, begins its life cycle as a seed, typically spread by ants through a process called myrmecochory. Upon germination, which requires a moist, shaded environment, the seed develops into a seedling with characteristic heart-shaped leaves. The plant then enters a vegetative growth phase, where it forms a dense colony via rhizome expansion, staying close to the ground. As the Asarum maximum matures, it produces unique, solitary flowers near the base of the stems, typically in spring. Once pollinated, possibly by flies attracted to its deceivingly meat-colored flowers, it sets seed contained within capsule-like fruits. The cycle is completed when these seeds are dispersed by ants again, and the plant can also propagate vegetatively through rhizome division.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
Asarum maximum, commonly known as large panda face ginger, is often propagated by division in the late winter to early spring months, just before new growth begins. To propagate by division, gardeners unearth the plant, carefully separating the rhizomes, ensuring that each division has at least one growth point, or 'eye'. These divisions are then replanted in prepared soil with good drainage and partial shade, mimicking the plant's natural understory habitat. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged to encourage root development. Once established, the divisions will grow into new plants, retaining the characteristics of the parent large panda face ginger. This method is favored for its simplicity and effectiveness in producing true-to-type clones of the original plant.
