Wild Ginger makes a lovely ground cover and is a good alternative to non-native and invasive English Ivy. 
 
     It does best in a moist, shady site that drains well. 
 
     Its shiny leaves can grow to 6 inches in diameter and remain for the entire season.  Try pairing it with Foamflower, Virginia Bluebells and other spring ephemerals.
 
     Tiny maroon flowers hide under the leaves and are ant pollinated.  Wild Ginger also attracts native bees and beetles.