Solomon’s Seal (Polygonatum biflorum)Ruscus Family Solomon’s Seal is a native perennial found in much of the woodlands of eastern and central North America. It is easily recognized by its arching, unbranched stems and alternate, oval-shaped leaves that create a ladder-like pattern. In spring, pairs of small, white flowers hang beneath the stems, followed by dark berries in late summer that attract birds and other wildlife. In the wild, it grows in moist, well-drained soils with high organic matter, typically in shaded or partially shaded areas. In home gardens, it performs well in similar conditions and works well in woodland gardens, shaded borders, or under trees. The plant slowly spreads by rhizomes to form colonies without becoming aggressive. The name “Solomon’s Seal” comes from scar-like marks on the rhizomes that resemble wax seals. Be cautious when buying or receiving “Solomon’s Seal,” as the non-native Polygonatum odoratum, often variegated, is frequently mislabeled as native. This Eurasian species can spread aggressively and lacks the ecological benefits of the true native, Polygonatum biflorum. Blooms: White, 2-4 weeks, April-May Leaves: Oval leaves arranged alternately along arching stems. Height: 1-3’ Space:18-24” Soil:Moist-Average, high organic matter Exposure:Shade-Part shade Fauna: Various bees, fruit for small animals Seeds: Dark blue berries hang below the foliage Deer Resistance:High Zone:3-9 Native Status: NC native, common across the state Provenance:TN, seed grown
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