Smooth Solomon’s Seal

(Polygonatum biflorum)

Smooth Solomon’s Seal (Polygonatum biflorum)

Eric Hunt

CC BY-SA 4.0

Image By: Eric Hunt

Recorded By:

Copyright Notice: Photo by: Eric Hunt | License Type: CC BY-SA 4.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 | Uploader: Eric in SF | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Polygonatum_biflorum_Arkansas.jpg | Notes: {{Information |Description={{en|1=Rockcap fern, Polypodium virginianum L., on sandstone Oak State Park in Athens County, Ohio}} |Source={{own}} |Author=[[User:Jaknouse|Jaknouse]] |Date=2007-01-27 |Permission= |other_versions= }} [[Category:Polypo |

Estimated Native Range

Summary

Polygonatum biflorum, commonly known as Smooth Solomon’s Seal, is a perennial herb that is deciduous in colder climates and semi-deciduous in milder regions. It is native to rich, moist, deciduous forests and bluffs in the Eastern and Central United States, extending into parts of Canada and erroneously reported as native to Northeast Mexico. This plant typically grows to a height of 1-3 feet and a width of 1-2 feet, with arching, unbranched stems. The leaves are alternate, ovate, and have a smooth margin. In late spring to early summer, small, bell-shaped, white-green flowers with a sweet fragrance hang in pairs or small clusters from the leaf axils, and these are followed by blue-black berries in late summer to fall. The rhizomes bear circular scars that are said to resemble the ancient Hebrew seal of King Solomon, hence the common name.

Smooth Solomon’s Seal is valued for its graceful form and delicate flowers, which add a subtle charm to woodland gardens and shady borders. It is also used in naturalized areas and as an understory plant in forested settings. This plant is relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established. It prefers moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter and thrives in part shade to full shade. While it is not prone to serious pest or disease problems, it can occasionally suffer from slug damage. Smooth Solomon’s Seal is not typically invasive but can form dense colonies over time through its rhizomes.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

Plant Type: Herb
Height: 1-3 feet
Width: 1-1.5 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
Flower Color: Cream, Green, White
Flowering Season: Spring
Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
Water: Medium, High
Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to rich, moist, deciduous forests and bluffs in the Eastern United States and parts of Canada

Other Names

Common Names: King Solomon’s Seal, Great Solomon’s Seal, American Solomon’s-Seal, Small Solomon’s Seal, Amerikansk Jätterams

Scientific Names: , Polygonatum biflorum, Polygonatum commutatum, Polygonatum canaliculatum, Polygonatum biflorum var. biflorum, Polygonatum giganteum, Polygonatum cobrense, Convallaria biflora, Polygonatum biflorum var. melleum, Salomonia cobrensis

GBIF Accepted Name: Polygonatum biflorum (Walter) Elliott