30 Seeds American Ginseng Panax quinquefolius Shade Garden Woodland Perennial

American Ginseng is a slow-growing woodland perennial known for its distinctive five-pronged compound leaves and inconspicuous greenish flowers that mature into a striking cluster of red berries in late summer. Valued by woodland gardeners and native plant enthusiasts, it offers elegant foliage texture and a quiet, understated presence in shaded naturalized settings.

This species works beautifully in woodland gardens, native plant landscapes, and shaded borders where its foliage and autumn berry display add seasonal interest. It performs best in cool, sheltered conditions that mimic a forest floor, thriving in rich, humusy soil with consistent moisture. Established plants are long-lived and reward patient growers with steadily increasing presence year after year.
Species: Panax quinquefolius
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Plant_Habit: Upright, clumping woodland perennial
Sun: Partial to full shade
Soil: Rich, moist, well-drained, humusy loam
Zones: 3-8
Germination: Slow and often requires cold-moist stratification
Sowing: Surface sow, lightly press into soil, keep moist and cool
Spacing: 12-18 inches
Notes: Berries appear in late summer on mature plants