ASARUM caudatum. Wild ginger. California and the Northwest. A creeping native perennial, found most often in our coastal redwoods. It bears large, shiny heart shaped leaves at intervals along the stems, eventually forming rich carpets. Both leaves and stems are fragrant when crushed. The odd, tailed flowers of dull maroon, though usually half--hidden, are most interesting. Deep to medium shade, most soils (best in loose, deep leaf mold), year--round moisture for best performance. It should be hardy to 10^oF or less.