American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is a long-lived woodland perennial native to North America. Known for its preference for shaded, forested environments with rich, loamy soil, this slow-growing plant is ideal for woodland gardens and naturalized forest settings. These high-quality, non-GMO seeds require patience and proper stratification but reward growers with a long-term, sustainable shade-loving plant that thrives in cool, moist woodlands.

Features

• Shade-loving North American woodland perennial
• Non-GMO American Ginseng seed variety
• Grows well in forest gardens, shaded beds, and naturalized settings
• Prefers cool, moist, humus-rich soil
• Long-lived plant with slow development
• Suitable for long-term woodland cultivation
• Thrives in undisturbed, shaded environments

Specifications

• Common Name: American Ginseng
• Scientific Name: Panax quinquefolius
• Plant Type: Perennial
• USDA Zones: 3–8
• Season: Spring emergence with summer foliage
• Height: 8–20 inches
• Foliage: Compound green leaves with serrated leaflets
• Bloom Color: Small greenish-white flowers
• Heirloom: Yes
• GMO Status: Non-GMO
• Organic: Not certified organic
• Light Requirements: Full shade to partial shade
• Soil Preference: Rich, loamy, moist, well-drained woodland soil
• Water Needs: Consistent moisture, not waterlogged
• Growth Rate: Very slow
• Cold Tolerance: Excellent
• Heat Tolerance: Moderate when shaded
• Stratification: Requires cold stratification
• Plant Spacing: 8–12 inches
• Seed Longevity: Best planted fresh after proper stratification

Planting Guide 

• Sowing Method: Direct sow outdoors in fall or plant pre-stratified seeds in spring.
• Seed Preparation:
• Seeds require cold stratification (commonly 10–12 months).
• Use naturally stratified seeds or replicate cold, moist storage if preparing at home.
• When to Plant:
• Fall: Ideal for natural cold stratification.
• Spring: Only if seeds are already stratified.
• Sowing Depth: 1/2 inch deep in loose woodland soil.
• Germination Time: 12–18 months (naturally slow).
• Light Requirements: Full shade or filtered woodland light.
• Soil Conditions: Rich, loamy soil with leaf mold or compost.
• Watering: Keep evenly moist but well-drained.
• Maintenance:
• Avoid disturbing soil around developing roots
• Mulch lightly with leaf litter
• Mark planting locations due to slow emergence