This small, thorny shrub, native to Northeastern Asia, is known for its medicinal qualities. Siberian Ginseng has adaptogen properties that come from the roots, although most of the plant contains medicinal alkaloids. It has been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine as a powerful tonic thats useful in maintaining good health rather than preventing ill health. It can be grown in full sun, partial sun or shady areas. Small green flower balls bloom in late summer and turn into deep purple berries. Siberian ginseng is not the same plant as American ginseng.