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: 3–7
• Height: 8–24 inches
• Spread: 6–12 inches
• Foliage: Compound leaves, 3–5 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: 8–12 inches
• Seed Viability: 1–2 years when stored cool & moist
Planting Guide
• Requires cold stratification: store moist in refrigeration for 6–12 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 moisture—avoid dry cycles during germination.
• Germination is slow; seedlings may emerge after 12–18 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.