Ginseng is a perennial plant that grows up to 2 feet tall when fully mature. The American Wild Ginseng roots range in size, depending on age and growing conditions. The Ginseng plant forms red berries in the late summer. The berries fall to the ground and lay dormant for one full year prior to the seeds sprouting in the spring. The immature roots are generally frail and small. It is not until the root begins to mature that it becomes forked or branched. Mature roots range from 2"- 8" inches in length and can be upwards of 2" in thickness. The roots are a yellowish white in color with brownish wrinkles or bands.

Where Does Ginseng Grow? Ginseng grows in deep, cool, hardwood forests. It grows best on land that slopes to the north or east and typically in areas that are shaded by a high canopy of trees. Ginseng is often found growing in small communities. If you find one plant, you can generally find others within the same immediate area.

Harvesting Of Wild Ginseng - Ginseng is harvested by individuals and their families. This has become a family tradition and part of their heritage for most of them. Gathering only mature roots with a sense of pride to ensure the continuation of the family's Ginseng heritage.

When Is Ginseng Harvested? The roots and tops of the Ginseng plant are harvested in the fall, after the seeds have set. Hershey's prides itself in providing older more mature plants for wholesale export, and welcomes customer inspection prior to shipment.