American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is a rare woodland perennial valued for its attractive compound leaves, seasonal flower clusters, and bright red berries. Ideal for shaded native landscapes, forest garden displays, and naturalized woodland beds, it thrives in rich, moist, well-draining soil under hardwood canopy cover. Its summer blooms support pollinators, adding ecological diversity to shaded garden spaces.
Features
Shade-loving native woodland herb Compound green foliage for natural forest displays Produces greenish-white flowers followed by red berries Supports pollinators in shaded ecosystems Non-GMO Panax quinquefolius seed variety Long-lived perennial when established
Specifications
Common Name: American Ginseng Scientific Name:Panax quinquefolius Type: Perennial woodland herb USDA Zones: 37 Height: 824 inches Spread: 612 inches Foliage: Compound leaves, 35 leaflets Flowers: Greenish-white umbels Berry Color: Red (late summer) Bloom Season: Late spring to summer Light Requirements: Shade to deep shade Soil Type: Humus-rich, moist, well-drained woodland soil Water Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture Pollinator Value: Supports small native insects Heirloom: Yes GMO Status: Non-GMO Organic: Not certified organic Maintenance Level: Moderate (requires shade) Plant Spacing: 812 inches Seed Viability: 12 years when stored cool & moist
Planting Guide
Requires cold stratification: store moist in refrigeration for 612 months if not pre-stratified. Sow in late fall or very early spring outdoors in shaded forest-like soil. Cover seeds lightly with 1/2 inch humus-rich soil. Maintain steady moistureavoid dry cycles during germination. Germination is slow; seedlings may emerge after 1218 months. Choose hardwood shade with leaf litter (oak, maple, beech). Do not overwater; allow natural soil moisture cycles. Mark planting areas to avoid disturbance during dormancy.
