1 / 6

Key characteristics

Family: Asparagaceae
Height: 2-3 feet
Width: 1-2 feet
Flower color: White, sometimes with a greenish tinge
Foliage color: Green
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light: Partial shade to full shade
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low
Wildlife: Bees, pollinators

Perennials

Polygonatum multiflorum

Solomon’s Seal

Polygonatum multiflorum, commonly known as Solomon's Seal, is a graceful perennial ideal for shaded garden areas, known for its arching stems, pendent white flowers, and lush green foliage. Blooming in late spring to early summer, the mildly fragrant bell-shaped flowers hang in pairs or small clusters from the leaf axils, attracting bees and other pollinators. The alternate, ovate to lanceolate leaves are arranged in two rows along the arching stems, providing a verdant backdrop.

Light

Partial shade to full shade

Water

Moderate

Bloom time

Late spring to early summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Borders
Shade Gardens
Woodland Gardens
Pollinator Gardens
Cut Flower Gardens

Companion plants

Astilbes · Heucheras · Siberian bugloss · Sweet woodruff · Foamflowers · Epimediums

Design tip

The long summer show pairs well with plants that peak earlier, keeping one area interesting for months. Cooler light suits it, so tuck it on the north side of a shrub or wall where the soil stays even.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)