Common Name:

General Information

Asarum maximum is a low-growing, evergreen perennial plant producing a cluster of leaves up to 45cm tall from a creeping rootstock, The rather interesting, but unpleasant-smelling flowers are hidden amongst the leaves[, ].
The plant is harvested from the wild for medicinal use. It is often grown as an ornamental in gardens, there are several named forms.
The plant is classified as 'Vulnerable' in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(2013)[].

Known Hazards

Although no reports of toxicity have been found for this plant, at least 3 other members of this genus have reports that the leaves are toxic[, ]. Some caution is therefore advised in the use of this plant.

Botanical References

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Range

E. Asia - central southern China (Hubei and E. Sichuan)

Habitat

Forests in humus rich soils; at elevations from 600 - 800 metres[].

Properties

Conservation Status	Vulnerable
Medicinal Rating
Habit	Evergreen Perennial
Height	0.35 m
Pollinators	Self, Flies
Self-fertile	Yes
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Plants are hardy to at least -15°c[].
Prefers a rich moist neutral to acid soil in woodland or a shady position in the rock garden[, ].
The flowers are malodorous and are mainly self-pollinated but are also pollinated by mycotrophic flies[, ].
Plants often self-sow when growing in a suitable position[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

The dried plant is used medicinally in Vietnam[]. The leaves ate used in the treatment of dyspepsia and colic whilst the flowers and roots are used as a reconstituent[].
Analgesic, expectorant. Used as a gargle for sore throats etc[].

The whole plan!, collected throughout the year, is sun-dried or heal-dried before use[].

Other Uses

None known

Propagation

Seed - best sown in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe in the summer[]. Stored seed will require 3 weeks cold stratification and should be sown in late winter[]. The seed usually germinates in the spring in 1 - 4 or more weeks at 18°c[]. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in light shade in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out when large enough in late spring.
Division in spring or autumn. Plants are slow to increase[]. It is best to pot the divisions up and keep them in light shade in the greenhouse until they are growing away strongly.