zoom_in Click to enlarge

Solomon's Seal

▲ ▼

description Solomon's Seal Overview

Solomon's Seal refers to several species of shade-loving herbaceous perennials within the genus Polygonatum, which is part of the asparagus family, Asparagaceae. These plants are widely distributed across the temperate woodlands of the Northern Hemisphere. They are characterized by their long, arching stems, which feature alternating oval leaves and pendulous, tubular white or greenish flowers that hang beneath the branches in late spring. The common name derives from the circular scars left on the underground rhizomes after the stems die back, which historically resembled a wax seal.

help Solomon's Seal FAQ

Why is Solomon's Seal called that?

Solomon's Seal is named for the circular scars left on its underground rhizomes after each year's stem dies back, which resemble the impression of an ancient wax seal. The genus Polygonatum belongs to the asparagus family (Asparagaceae) and includes species native across North America, Europe, and Asia.

Is Solomon's Seal safe to eat?

The mature berries and rhizomes of Solomon's Seal contain compounds that can cause nausea or digestive distress if consumed raw in quantity, and the plant is considered mildly toxic. However, the young shoots of some Polygonatum species have been traditionally prepared as a vegetable in parts of East Asia after proper cooking.

Will Solomon's Seal grow in full shade?

Solomon's Seal thrives in partial to full shade with moist, well-drained soil, making it a reliable choice for woodland gardens. In shaded settings it spreads slowly by rhizomes to form elegant arching colonies that provide texture from spring through fall.

How do you propagate Solomon's Seal?

Solomon's Seal is most easily propagated by dividing its fleshy rhizomes in early spring or fall, ensuring each division retains at least one visible growth bud. It can also be grown from the ripe blue-black berries, but seed-grown plants may take two or more years to germinate due to double dormancy.

swap_horiz

Looking for Solomon's Seal alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward