PANAX QUINQUEFOLIUM

FAMILY :: ARALIACEAE
XI-YANG-SHEN, AMERICAN GINSENG: Native to the cool, humus-rich woods of Canada and the Northern USA, this ginseng is widely used as a tonic and adaptagen. Its uses are somewhat different than Asian ginseng, being considered more cooling and more appropriately used by the elderly and those living in the tropics. Prefers rich, moist, acid, hardwood forest soil and about 90% shade. Dislikes heat and clay and sandy soils. The root is normally harvested after 5 or 6 years growth.