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How to Hunt for Wild Ginseng Download Article Reviewed by Ben Barkan
Last Updated: February 24, 2025 Fact Checked
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Finding and Harvesting Ginseng
|
Abiding by Ginseng Laws and Regulations
|
Video
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Tips
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Warnings
|Show more|Show less X
This article was reviewed by Ben Barkan. Ben Barkan is a Garden and Landscape Designer and the Owner and Founder of HomeHarvest LLC, an edible landscapes and construction business based in Boston, Massachusetts. Ben has over 12 years of experience working with organic gardening and specializes in designing and building beautiful landscapes with custom construction and creative plant integration. He is a Certified Permaculture Designer, Licensed Construction Supervisor in Massachusetts, and a Licensed Home Improvement Contractor. He holds an associates degree in Sustainable Agriculture from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 2,456,159 times.
The root of the ginseng plant has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years and is highly sought after. American ginseng is listed as an Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora and is often harvested and exported to Asia where the best quality roots can sell for hundreds of dollars per pound. Because of the high demand, wild ginseng harvesting is regulated. **It is important that you use sustainable harvesting practices to ensure the long-term survival of the wild ginseng population.**
Steps
Method 1 Method 1 of 2:
Finding and Harvesting Ginseng
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1 Hunt during the season. The harvest of wild ginseng is regulated in 19 states (Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin)[1]XResearch source ,and is restricted or prohibited in all other states where it occurs. All of the 19 states have a designated harvest season, which is from September 1 to November 30. Plan your harvesting accordingly.
If you have questions, contact your state natural resource or agriculture department for more details. The American Herbal Products Association is also a resource for state laws and regulations.
In Canada, it is illegal to harvest wild ginseng, and it is classified as endangered both nationally and in Ontario and Québec. The export of wild roots in Canada is prohibited.
2 Go where the ginseng grows. Ginseng is native to hardwood forests of North America, from southern Canada (Ontario and Quebec), west to South Dakota and Oklahoma, and south to Georgia. It usually grows in well-shaded areas (especially north- or east-facing slopes) of moist hardwood forests.The more mature the forest (with large hardwood trees and a full canopy that shades out most shrubs, briars, etc.), the better for ginseng, as a thick understory of smaller plants will overshade or compete with ginseng plants.
If you are interested in a certain area, check the USDA map[2]XResearch source to see if ginseng has ever grown there before. This will greatly increase your chances of finding some ginseng.
Remember that the combination of shade and moisture create the best environment for ginseng to grow.
Go to forests that have Beech Trees, Maple Trees, Hickory trees, Oak Trees, Basswood Trees, and Tulip Poplar Trees. Ginseng grows well in the shade of these trees.
If you begin to harvest late into the season, you may have more difficulty finding ginseng.
Look for deep, dark soil that is loose and covered with leaf litter.
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3 Look for companion plants. One indicator that you may be in an area where ginseng grows is the presence of "companion plants." These plants favor the same habitat conditions as ginseng and are sometimes found growing among ginseng. Finding these plants does not guarantee that you'll also find ginseng, but it is a good place to start.
These companion plants include trillium (Trillium spp.), bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis), cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides -blue, Actaea racemosa-black), jack-in-the-pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum ), wild yam (Dioscorea villosa), goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), and Solomon’s seal (Polygonatum biflorum).
Poison Ivy is not considered a companion plant.
4 Identify the ginseng plant. The ginseng plant has a single stem that ends with a whorl (i.e. single point that the leaves originate from) of 1 to 4 leaves. Each leaf usually has 3 to 5 leaflets (i.e. smaller leaves).[3]XResearch source If the plant is mature, you will see a cluster of 6 to 20 whitish green flowers. The flowers will eventually produce red berries.
Ginseng can be hard to spot. However once you find the first plant, it will be easier to find more.
Ginseng changes as it develops. If the plant is immature, you will see a single stem with only 3 leaflets total. As the plant matures, each leaf will consist of 3 to 7 leaflets. A ginseng patch will have plants of all different stages of growth.[4]XResearch source
You can find ginseng in both small groups and as solitary plants.
It may be helpful to look at pictures of the ginseng plant before you go hunting or take a more experienced hunter with you.
5 Harvest only mature plants with red berries. If harvesting wild ginseng is allowed in your state harvest only mature plants with 3 or more prongs (leaves), and only when there is a sizeable population (leave at least 2/3 so that they can continue to reproduce, as well as any immature plants). Because wild ginseng is threatened, make sure to pick any ripe, red berries and plant them, separately, 1/2" to 1" deep in loose soil, 2 to 10 feet from the parent plant. You should protect these plants from other harvesters by clipping the stems from all 2-, 3-, and 4-pronged plants (making sure to plant any ripe berries).
For more information on sustainable harvesting methods, see:
6 Dig carefully. When you find a mature plant with 3 prongs (i.e. leaves) (or 4 prongs (leaves) in Illinois), carefully dig the root out so as not to damage it and the neck. Use a pitchfork or needle-nose spade to dig under the plant, and leave plenty of space (about 6 inches/15 cm) between the plant and where you push the pitchfork or spade into the ground.[5]XResearch source
Be respectful of nearby plants and try not to disturb them. If the plant is close to immature ginseng plants, use a smaller tool such as a stout flat blade screwdriver about 8 or 10 inches (20.3 or 25.4 cm) long, and work with extra care.
If there is any risk of damaging the roots of adjacent immature ginseng plants, do not attempt to harvest the plant.
After you have dug the root out, squeeze the red fruits into the palm of your hand and plant the seeds about 1 inch (2.5 cm) under the soil near the harvested plant. Never remove ginseng seeds or immature plants from the woods.
7 Wash and dry the root(s). When you get back home, briefly soak the roots in a bucket of cool water to remove excess soil. Do not wash them under a sink faucet or with a hose. Do not scrub them or wash them vigorously as some soil is desirable by the buyer and the surface of the root can easily be damaged. Then place the roots in a single layer on a screen tray or wooden rack to dry.[6]XResearch source
Make sure the roots are not touching and let them dry on a wooden rack or screen tray in a well-ventilated room between 70–100 °F (21–38 °C).
Never dry your roots in the oven, microwave, direct sunlight, or in a car window (i.g. placing the root near the back window of your car).
Check your roots periodically as they are drying. If you see any mold or discoloration, adjust the temperature or airflow.
Roots should easily snap into two pieces when they are completely dry.
It will probably take 1 to 2 weeks to dry your ginseng roots.
Advertisement Method 2 Method 2 of 2:
Abiding by Ginseng Laws and Regulations
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1 Get a permit or license, if necessary. Some states require you to have a state-issued permit to harvest.[7]XResearch source If you are harvesting on private property, get permission from the property owner before you start.[8]XResearch source Always take your permit with you when are out harvesting. You are required to show your permit if you are requested to do so.
Some U.S. Forest Service National Forests issue harvest permits for wild ginseng while other National Forests prohibit the harvest of ginseng. Check with the National Forest in your area to know whether ginseng harvesting is allowed. The harvest of wild ginseng on U.S. National Parks is strictly prohibited.
2 Identify mature ginseng plants. You are only permitted to harvest mature ginseng plants. Mature ginseng plants are at least 5 years old and have 3 or 4 prongs. Also, look for plants with red berries. You can also count stem scars to determine the age of the plant.[9]XResearch source
For every year of growth, a stem scar will appear on the root neck of the plant. The plants you harvest should have at least 4 stem scars.
You don't need to remove the plant from the ground to count stem scars. Simply, remove the soil from around the area where the root neck is.
If the berries are still green, the plant isn't ready for you to harvest.
3 Sell and export your ginseng. You will need a license to sell and/or export your ginseng. If you plan to ship your ginseng out of state, it must be certified by the State or Tribe where you harvested the roots. If you plan to ship your ginseng internationally, apply for an export permit from the US Fish & Wildlife Service.[10]XResearch source
Your international shipments will only be permitted if you harvested the roots according to all regulations and the shipment is not detrimental to the survival of the American ginseng population.
4 Export ginseng internationally. If you plan to export your ginseng, you must apply for a permit through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. There is a form for multiple commercial shipments and a form for a single shipment. In addition to your permit, you must have State or Tribal documents that certify that you legally harvested the ginseng.[11]XResearch source
Once your application is approved, your Master File is established. You will then have to get single-use permits for each of one your exports.
Your application to export wild ginseng will be valid for one year.
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The Takeaway: Finding Wild American Ginseng
American ginseng is found in moist hardwood forests (especially on north- or east-facing slopes) from southern Canada to Georgia, typically in the shade of beech, maple, hickory, oak, basswood, and tulip poplar trees. Check your state’s ginseng preservation laws before harvesting.
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Tips
Wild plants can take many years to flower and set fruit. The flowers produce berries which turn from green to red when ripe in the fall. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
Ginseng plants can live 30 to 50 years. Additional leaves or prongs grow, each with 3-5 (usually 5, but occasionally more or fewer) leaflets and a mature plant may have a stem up to 20 inches (50.8 cm) tall with 3-4 rarely 5 or more prongs. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
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Warnings
Exercise caution to prevent poaching. The best defense against poachers is secrecy. Make sure your crop is on your private property, well-hidden and unlikely to be disturbed. Don’t talk about it any more than necessary, and only deal with reputable suppliers and buyers. As plants approach maturity, be especially watchful. Should you catch poachers, try to deter them and have them apprehended by law enforcement officers. Thanks Helpful 16 Not Helpful 10
To ensure survival of the species (and to avoid being fined or imprisoned), always follow your state’s laws regarding the harvest of wild ginseng and the growth and sale of wild and wild-simulated ginseng. Thanks Helpful 38 Not Helpful 40
Be careful when confronting potential poachers, and avoid using force or violence to repel them. Thanks Helpful 40 Not Helpful 31
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Reviewed by: Ben Barkan Garden & Landscape Designer This article was reviewed by Ben Barkan. Ben Barkan is a Garden and Landscape Designer and the Owner and Founder of HomeHarvest LLC, an edible landscapes and construction business based in Boston, Massachusetts. Ben has over 12 years of experience working with organic gardening and specializes in designing and building beautiful landscapes with custom construction and creative plant integration. He is a Certified Permaculture Designer, Licensed Construction Supervisor in Massachusetts, and a Licensed Home Improvement Contractor. He holds an associates degree in Sustainable Agriculture from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. This article has been viewed 2,456,159 times. 7 votes - 71% Co-authors: 48Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 2,456,159 Categories: Featured Articles | Botany | Herbal Health
Medical Disclaimer
The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.
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Article SummaryX
If you’re hunting for wild ginseng, start in a hardwood forest where there’s a full tree canopy and dark, loose soil. Check for ginseng in areas where you see companion plants, like trillium or wild yam, which grow in similar conditions. Try to identify the ginseng by looking for its single stem ending at the top with 1-4 leaves, each with its own leaflets. Leave the young plants and the more mature plants with whitish green flowers to grow some more, and harvest just the fully mature ones that have red berries. For more details on how to hunt for wild ginseng, including how to follow harvest the plants, read on!Did this summary help you?YesNo
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Reader Success Stories
Faryn Rynd
Jun 7, 2017
"This article was very helpful! I learned so much about ginseng. I had no idea that you need a permit and that it's illegal in some states. Learned where to go to begin my hunt and that there are several ways to identify the age of the plant (Scars on the stem). Also there are tons of procedures that need to be properly executed to keep ginseng safe from extinction! Greedy fingers are a serious danger! Thank you so much for this article!"..." more
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Did this article help you?
Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Reviewed by: Ben Barkan Garden & Landscape Designer 7 votes - 71% Click a star to vote Co-authors: 48Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 2,456,159
Faryn Rynd
Jun 7, 2017
"This article was very helpful! I learned so much about ginseng. I had no idea that you need a permit and that it's illegal in some states. Learned where to go to begin my hunt and that there are several ways to identify the age of the plant (Scars on the stem). Also there are tons of procedures that need to be properly executed to keep ginseng safe from extinction! Greedy fingers are a serious danger! Thank you so much for this article!"..." more
Rob Waddell
Jun 3, 2016
"Very helpful. I'm interested in knowing if my property has the fending plants. I live in the upstate South Carolina area, and my property is predominantly forest. I'm curious as to the laws applying to private property? South Carolina wasn't listed on the permissible states list."..." more
J. E. Buchanan lll
Nov 29, 2017
"One of the major things that stood out to me in the article was the fact that wild ginseng is almost extinct. I was also unaware of all of the U.S. state and federal laws that are currently on the books just to protect the remaining ginseng plants."..." more
Jacky Hults
Feb 24, 2018
"This article was helpful in every way. It shows what ginseng looks like, it tells you the season to hunt it, when it's mature, and how to plant the seed. It really covers everything."..." more
Anonymous
Oct 12, 2017
"It was all completely helpful! I love ginseng tea, and did not know I could go and find it myself. I definitely had no idea it was endangered! Thank you for all the helpful info."..." more Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories
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Reviewed by: Ben Barkan Garden & Landscape Designer This article was reviewed by Ben Barkan. Ben Barkan is a Garden and Landscape Designer and the Owner and Founder of HomeHarvest LLC, an edible landscapes and construction business based in Boston, Massachusetts. Ben has over 12 years of experience working with organic gardening and specializes in designing and building beautiful landscapes with custom construction and creative plant integration. He is a Certified Permaculture Designer, Licensed Construction Supervisor in Massachusetts, and a Licensed Home Improvement Contractor. He holds an associates degree in Sustainable Agriculture from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. This article has been viewed 2,456,159 times. 7 votes - 71% Co-authors: 48 Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 2,456,159 Categories: Featured Articles | Botany | Herbal Health 
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1 Hunt during the season. The harvest of wild ginseng is regulated in 19 states (Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin)[1] ,and is restricted or prohibited in all other states where it occurs. All of the 19 states have a designated harvest season, which is from September 1 to November 30. Plan your harvesting accordingly. 
2 Go where the ginseng grows. Ginseng is native to hardwood forests of North America, from southern Canada (Ontario and Quebec), west to South Dakota and Oklahoma, and south to Georgia. It usually grows in well-shaded areas (especially north- or east-facing slopes) of moist hardwood forests.The more mature the forest (with large hardwood trees and a full canopy that shades out most shrubs, briars, etc.), the better for ginseng, as a thick understory of smaller plants will overshade or compete with ginseng plants. 
3 Look for companion plants. One indicator that you may be in an area where ginseng grows is the presence of "companion plants." These plants favor the same habitat conditions as ginseng and are sometimes found growing among ginseng. Finding these plants does not guarantee that you'll also find ginseng, but it is a good place to start. 
4 Identify the ginseng plant. The ginseng plant has a single stem that ends with a whorl (i.e. single point that the leaves originate from) of 1 to 4 leaves. Each leaf usually has 3 to 5 leaflets (i.e. smaller leaves).[3] If the plant is mature, you will see a cluster of 6 to 20 whitish green flowers. The flowers will eventually produce red berries. 
5 Harvest only mature plants with red berries. If harvesting wild ginseng is allowed in your state harvest only mature plants with 3 or more prongs (leaves), and only when there is a sizeable population (leave at least 2/3 so that they can continue to reproduce, as well as any immature plants). Because wild ginseng is threatened, make sure to pick any ripe, red berries and plant them, separately, 1/2" to 1" deep in loose soil, 2 to 10 feet from the parent plant. You should protect these plants from other harvesters by clipping the stems from all 2-, 3-, and 4-pronged plants (making sure to plant any ripe berries). 
6 Dig carefully. When you find a mature plant with 3 prongs (i.e. leaves) (or 4 prongs (leaves) in Illinois), carefully dig the root out so as not to damage it and the neck. Use a pitchfork or needle-nose spade to dig under the plant, and leave plenty of space (about 6 inches/15 cm) between the plant and where you push the pitchfork or spade into the ground.[5] 
7 Wash and dry the root(s). When you get back home, briefly soak the roots in a bucket of cool water to remove excess soil. Do not wash them under a sink faucet or with a hose. Do not scrub them or wash them vigorously as some soil is desirable by the buyer and the surface of the root can easily be damaged. Then place the roots in a single layer on a screen tray or wooden rack to dry.[6] 
1 Get a permit or license, if necessary. Some states require you to have a state-issued permit to harvest.[7] If you are harvesting on private property, get permission from the property owner before you start.[8] Always take your permit with you when are out harvesting. You are required to show your permit if you are requested to do so. 
2 Identify mature ginseng plants. You are only permitted to harvest mature ginseng plants. Mature ginseng plants are at least 5 years old and have 3 or 4 prongs. Also, look for plants with red berries. You can also count stem scars to determine the age of the plant.[9] 
3 Sell and export your ginseng. You will need a license to sell and/or export your ginseng. If you plan to ship your ginseng out of state, it must be certified by the State or Tribe where you harvested the roots. If you plan to ship your ginseng internationally, apply for an export permit from the US Fish & Wildlife Service.[10] 
4 Export ginseng internationally. If you plan to export your ginseng, you must apply for a permit through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. There is a form for multiple commercial shipments and a form for a single shipment. In addition to your permit, you must have State or Tribal documents that certify that you legally harvested the ginseng.[11]