Reflexed Wild Ginger

The plant forms dense colonies in the understory of deciduous forests throughout its native range in eastern North America, from the Great Plains east to the Atlantic Coast, and from southeastern Canada south to around the Fall Line in the southeastern United States. Shaded habitats lead to longer surviving ramets and more genetically unique genets. Yet, individuals within environments with more shade are thought to have less energy to devote towards defenses against herbivores. Extensive logging in Maine is thought to be the reason for the species' threatened status in the state.

The species' primary form of reproduction is through clones spread via rhizomes, although it can also produce genetically different seedlings via self-pollination. Individuals produced by asexual reproduction are able to use energy more efficiently and develop larger leaves, but the trade-offs between sexual reproduction and asexual are thought to be insignificant. Although some local populations are at risk of extirpation, they can be reestablished even through low initial plantings.

The long rhizomes of A. canadense were historically used by Native Americans as a seasoning. The odor and flavor of Canadian snakeroot oil are spicy and has been used in many flavor preparations. However, due to it containing aristolochic acid I, it is not recommended for consumption.

Historically, Native Americans used the plant as a medicinal herb to treat a number of ailments including dysentery, digestive problems, swollen breasts, coughs and colds, typhus, scarlet fever, nerves, sore throats, cramps, heaves, earaches, headaches, convulsions, asthma, tuberculosis, urinary disorders, and venereal disease. In addition, they also used it as a stimulant, appetite enhancer, charm and an admixture to strengthen other herbal preparations. Tribes that used the species medicinally and culinarily include the Chippewa, the Iroquois, the Ojibwe, the Meskwaki, the Menomini, the Potawatomi, the Cherokee, the Abnaki, and the Micmac.