American Ginseng seeds (pre-stratified)
American ginseng is native to the eastern U.S. and Canada. It's considered an "adaptogen" that will help the human body adapt to environmental, emotional, and physical stressors. It has long been valued for its health benefits that include but are not limited to lower blood sugar levels, lower insulin levels, cold and flu prevention boosts to the immune system, less severe symptoms once a cold or flu has been caught, combats fatigue, is a natural stimulant, anti-aging properties, and many many other benefits.
This is a truly amazing herbaceous plant and if you have ever tried to purchase American ginseng roots, you will find that it's not cheap (a better reason to grow your own!). There is a reason for this but hear me out. The American ginseng plant can take from 3 - 5 years to reach full maturity. You only have to worry about this if you are harvesting the roots, but fret not. While you wait for your ginseng baby to reach maturity, you can get the benefits of harvesting the leaves. The leaves aren't as potent, but a regular cup of tea made from the leaves should yield considerable and noticeable benefits.
These are hardy in zones 3 - 9. They can survive up to -40º (F). If growing in cooler climates, you will need to cover with mulch, grass clippings, tarp, etc. during winter. You can also grow it in a large container and overwinter it until spring. If you have a sunroom or greenhouse, you can overwinter it until the following spring. You will need to be very patient as ginseng can germinate for a little over a year. It's a plant that requires some patience and dedication, but it will be worth it. You can benefit from the entire plant yourself, or sell the roots, this plant is a true cash cow.
**These statements are not intended to treat, diagnose, or cure any condition.
Seed count: 20
Botanic name:
Panax quinquefolius
Plant spacing:
Plant 4 - 5 seeds together in groups around 2 feet apart.
Color:
Red berries, olive green leaves. The roots will be a cream color until dried.
Sowing depth:
1/2 - 3/4" deep.
Sun requirements:
At least 70% shade.
Seed type:
Seed
Utilization:
Made into a tea, eaten raw, steamed lightly to soften before consumption. The roots can also be dried and ground into a powder and added to soups and stir fries.
Frost Hardy:
Yes
Maturity days:
Appox. 18 months or sooner for germination as seeds are pre-stratified. The herbaceous perennial will continue to grow and the roots should be harvested around years 3-5.
Life cycle:
Perennial
Can I start indoors:
Yes
Container friendly:
Yes
Vine Habit:
