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Pre-stratified seeds - American ginseng

Panax quinquefolius

Minimum 50 semences par enveloppe

Sale price

Regular price $5.00
( / )

Semences par gramme: 30

Année de récolte: 2024


Catégories: indigène, menacée, médicinale, nouveauté, vivace,

Aire de répartition indigène: ON, QC,

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For successful seedlings,
see the growing notes at the bottom of the page!

Rooted in the humid, humus-rich undergrowth of eastern North America, Panax quinquefolius—better known as American ginseng—is a slow-growing perennial plant valued for its fleshy roots and medicinal properties. With its foliage composed of five leaflets and small pale green flowers that transform into red berries in late summer, this plant serves as an ecological health indicator for forests. Adapted to shaded environments, it is particularly vulnerable to disturbances, earning it protected status in Quebec.

Protection Status
Classified as a threatened species in Quebec and listed as an endangered species in Canada, American ginseng is protected by strict laws to prevent overexploitation. Its wild harvesting and trade are prohibited, which is why our seeds come from cultivated plants and never from wild collection.

Medicinal and Culinary Uses
Highly valued in traditional medicine for its potential benefits, this plant is known for boosting energy, strengthening the immune system, and improving concentration. However, wild harvesting remains restricted to protect this fragile species.

Ecological Roles
Despite its modest role in interactions with pollinators, Panax quinquefolius makes an essential contribution to forest biodiversity. Its berries attract certain birds and small mammals that aid in seed dispersal, and its presence signifies a stable and healthy forest ecosystem.

Akène cannot assume any responsibility for the use of plants for therapeutic purposes. Always seek advice from a professional before using a medicinal or edible plant.

Growing Notes | Pre-stratified seeds - American ginseng

The American ginseng seeds we offer are pre-stratified, with warm stratification already completed and cold stratification well underway. For direct outdoor sowing, it is best to plant the seeds in the fall and cover them with a layer of dead leaves to protect them during winter. This method mimics the forest floor's natural conditions and promotes successful germination in the spring.

For indoor sowing, you can continue cold stratification in the refrigerator until February. At that point, plant the seeds in a rich, well-drained substrate, and place them in a partially shaded area. It is essential to keep the substrate slightly moist.

Germination Specifics
Even after complete stratification, some seeds may not germinate until the second year. If no seedlings emerge during the first spring, do not be discouraged! If you started the seeds in containers, it is best to transfer them to the ground and allow nature to take its course for potential germination the following spring.

Transplanting and Establishment
American ginseng seedlings are delicate and require careful handling. When their first true leaves appear, transplant them with caution or move them to a shaded location in humus-rich, well-drained soil.

Maintenance
Once established, American ginseng requires minimal care. Apply a mulch made of dead leaves or organic matter to retain soil moisture and enrich the soil. Avoid using fertilizers or disturbing the roots, as American ginseng is sensitive to disruptions. Note that this species is protected in Quebec, so if cultivated, it is essential to respect its habitat and avoid interfering with its development.

Seeds per packet: 50

Family: Araliaceae

Scientific name: Panax quinquefolius

Life cycle: Perennial

Hardiness zone: 4

Soil type:
Silty to clayey

Soil moisture level: Medium to slightly moist

Soil - additional attributes: Well-drained, rich

Light: Partial shade, shade

Blooming: June to July

Spacing: 25 cm

Height: 60 cm

Deer resistance: Low, highly favoured by deer.

Stratification: Pre-stratified seeds

Scarification: No

Germination time: Variable

Sowing depth: 10 mm