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About American Ginseng
American Ginseng is a native perennial found in the temperate nutrient-rich forests in North America. It has been overharvested in its natural habitat and is now strictly regulated in many states and by the federal government. It is best used in an herb garden, naturalized area or woodland setting.
Taxonomy
Panax quinquefolius
Panax
Araliaceae
Apiales
Also known as
Panacis quinquefolis

How to care for American Ginseng
How often to water your American Ginseng

every 9
American Ginseng needs 0.5 cups of water every 9 when it doesn’t get direct sunlight and is potted in a 5" pot.
Use our water calculator to personalize watering recommendations to your environment or download Greg for more advanced recommendations for all of your plants.
Water 0.5 cups every
9
Finding light for American Ginseng in your home

a window
American Ginseng may have difficulty thriving, and will drop leaves 🍃, without ample sunlight.
Place it less than 3 feet from a south-facing window to maximize the potential for growth.
Select your region to see how the current weather in your area affects the placement of American Ginseng in your home 🏡.
How to fertilize American Ginseng

Most potting soils come with ample nutrients which plants use to produce new growth.
By the time your plant has depleted the nutrients in its soil it’s likely grown enough to need a larger pot anyway.
To replenish this plant's nutrients, repot your American Ginseng after it doubles in size or once a year—whichever comes first.
American Ginseng is generally considered an easy-to-care-for plant and makes a great choice for beginners!
💦 Water Needs
American Ginseng prefers for the soil to dry out between waterings and should be watered regularly. Use our water calculator to personalize watering recommendations to your environment or download Greg for more advanced recommendations for all of your plants.
☀️ Sunlight Needs
American Ginseng may have difficulty thriving and will drop leaves 🍃 without ample sunlight. Place it less than 3 feet from a window to maximize the potential for growth. Select your region to see how the current weather in your area affects the placement in your home 🏡.
🐶 🐈 👶 Toxicity
Greg does not have confirmed data on this plant’s toxicity. If you, a family member, or a pet consumes plant material of unknown toxicity, it’s always best to consult a medical professional.
If you or someone else ingested this plant, call Poison Control at US (800) 222-1222. If a pet consumed this plant, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA at US (888) 426-4435.
🪴 Soil
American Ginseng does best in well-draining soil. A good soil will contain lots of organic matter such as coco coir as well as perlite or vermiculite to help with drainage. Adding a handful of perlite to regular store-bought potting soil should do the trick!
💩 Fertilizer
American Ginseng grows very slowly and doesn’t require added fertilizer. Replacing your plant’s potting soil once a year should provide them with more than enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not fertilizer!
⬆️ ⬇️ Growth Pattern
American Ginseng grows vertically and new growth will emerge from the top of the plant.
🌦️ Growing Outdoors
USDA Hardiness Zone
American Ginseng can be grown outdoors in USDA Hardiness Zones 4a-8b. Find your local hardiness zone here.
🌱 Propagation
The seeds of American Ginseng can be used to grow new plants! After your plant flowers, any seeds that formed can be collected and germinated in potting soil.
🧐 Troubleshooting
When troubleshooting a sad-looking houseplant, start by checking for signs of distress in its leaves, such as yellowing, browning, or drooping, which can indicate overwatering or nutrient deficiencies.
Inspect the soil moisture; too dry or too wet soil can cause problems.
Ensure the plant is getting the right amount of light, as too much or too little can stress it.
Finally, consider environmental factors like temperature and humidity, and adjust care routines accordingly to revive your plant.
Care Summary for American Ginseng
American Ginseng
Greg recommends:

0.5 cups every 9 days

< 3ft from a window

Repot after 2x growth
Based on the 4” pot your plant is in, and that it doesn’t get direct sunlight.
