Asarum caudatum  Wild Ginger

Aristolochiaceae

From California and elsewhere in N. America; loves coastal redwood groves, native to Santa Cruz Mountains. Moderate growth evergreen groundcover (considered a perennial herb). Design height is 10", gets up to 1'. Design spread is 18", indefinite spread. Simple dark green 3 to 7" long leaves, entire and cilliate. Spreads by rhizomes. Brownish purple (violet) 1 to 2 1/2" long flowers, May-July and intermittently in April. 3/4" capsule fruit. Prefers shade, high water, loam; tolerates part sun, sandy soil and bog to moderate amounts of water. Slugs and snails love it, and it's subject to leaf spot. Propagate by division and seed, little pruning required. Good for erosion control, lush ground cover, under conifers, to soften railroad tie steps, under deck. Naturalizes.