Introduction
Ginseng has been valued across cultures for centuries and is one of the most recognised botanical products in the world. But not all ginseng sold under that name is the same.
American, Korean, Canadian, and Chinese ginseng differ in botanical species, growing region, cultivation, appearance, and traditional use — differences that are easy to miss unless you know what to look for. Understanding them can help you make an informed choice based on your preferences and intended use.
This guide compares the most common types of ginseng available in Australia, so you know exactly what you're buying.
| American | Korean | Canadian | Chinese | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Species | Panax quinquefolius | Panax ginseng | Panax quinquefolius | Panax ginseng |
| Main growing regions | Wisconsin, USA | Korea | Ontario, British Columbia | China |
| Character | Milder, slightly sweet, with an earthy, bittersweet quality | Bolder and earthier, with a more pronounced bitterness (spicier aftertaste when processed as red ginseng) | Similar profile to American — same species | Varies by species grown |
| Traditional Chinese Medicine use | Regarded as a "cooling" tonic in Traditional Chinese Medicine | Regarded as a "warming" tonic in Traditional Chinese Medicine | Same tradition as American, given shared species | Depends on species — see American or Korean |
| CITES Listed | Yes | No | Yes | No (Panax ginseng not listed) |
American Ginseng
Native to North America and grown primarily in Wisconsin, where the climate and soil are considered especially well suited to the plant. Known for a milder, slightly sweet character with an earthy, bittersweet quality — a gentler introduction for those new to ginseng.
Korean Ginseng
A different species entirely — Panax ginseng — native to Korea and often processed into "red ginseng" through steaming, which gives it a bolder, earthier character with a more pronounced bitterness and a spicier aftertaste than American ginseng.
Canadian Ginseng
The same species as American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius), grown mainly in Ontario and British Columbia. Shares a similar mild, sweet profile, though growing region can influence the exact character of the root.
Chinese Ginseng
A more complicated category — China grows both native Panax ginseng and, in some regions, Panax quinquefolius under license from American growers. This is part of why "American ginseng" grown or processed overseas can end up labeled ambiguously, which is exactly the confusion Panvera was started to cut through.
Ready to try authentic Wisconsin ginseng?
Shop our ginseng slices