Ginseng Root Identification

The shapes of ginseng roots vary.

Growers can produce ginseng under simulated wild conditions. Ginseng grown in such a manner will develop characteristics similar to those of wild ginseng. Ginseng roots of marketable size are at least 3 to 8 inches long, 1/4 to 1 inch thick and 1 oz. in weight.

Features

Ginseng develops a forked or branched root. Roots with unbroken branches are called "hands" of ginseng.

Identification

Cultivated ginseng has an appearance different from that of wild ginseng. According to the West Virginia University Extension Service, cultivated ginseng has a creamy color, shows a minimal number of concentric growth rings and has a smooth, fat appearance, while wild ginseng has a dark tan color and many concentric rings.

Considerations

Ginseng roots have an outer layer of skin that can be easily damaged. Harvested roots may be gently washed, but should never be scrubbed clean. Roots that have been washed or scrubbed too extensively have an undesirable white appearance.

References

• University of Wisconsin Cooperative Extension: Wisconsin Corn Agronomy -- Ginseng; H. C. Harrison, et al.
• National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service: Ginseng, Goldenseal, and Other Native Roots; Katherine L. Adam; 2004
• Ohio State University Extension Fact Sheet: Growing American Ginseng in Ohio: An Introduction; Chip Carroll, et al.
• West Virginia University Extension Service: Woods-Grown Ginseng; John A. Scott, Jr., et al.; June 1995

Resources

• Ohio State University Extension: Growing American Ginseng ...; Chip Carroll, et al.