My Account
Basket
Description
Solomon’s seal (Polygonatum multiflorum) is a graceful, creeping perennial prized for its elegant arching stems and soft woodland character. Native to Northern Europe, this rhizomatous herbaceous perennial slowly spreads via underground rhizomatous roots, forming long-lived clumps over time.
In late spring to early summer, slender stems carry rows of white bell-shaped flowers beneath the leaves. The flowers are subtly scented and are sometimes followed by dark, round berries later in the season.
Closely related to lily of the valley, Solomon’s seal shares the same love of shade and humus-rich soil, making it a reliable choice for woodland and shady garden settings.
How to Identify
Solomon’s seal can be recognised by its smooth, gently arching stems lined with oval, green leaves. The flowers hang delicately from the leaf axils, appearing in pairs or small groups along the underside of the stem.
As the season progresses, the flowers may develop into rounded berries that darken as they ripen. When Solomon’s seal dies in autumn, it retreats below ground to its rhizomes, re-emerging fresh in spring.
How to Grow
Solomon’s seal grows best in partial shade or full shade, making it ideal for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and beneath trees. It prefers moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil and benefits from the addition of leaf mould or compost.
Once established, Solomon’s seal is low-maintenance and tolerant of cool conditions. Although it will tolerate brief periods of sun, it performs best away from full sun. Over time, it can be allowed to naturalise as attractive ground cover among other shade lovers.
