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Polygonatum biflorum (Small Solomon's seal, Solomon's seal)

Polygonatum biflorum Photo/Illustration: Michelle Gervais


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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Polygonatum biflorum Common Name: Small Solomon's seal, Solomon's seal Synonyms: P. canaliculatum, P. commutatum, P. giganteum Genus: Polygonatum
From late spring into summer, this species bears tubular greenish-white flowers that dangle underneath the arching stems. The foliage is smooth; in autumn it turns to clear yellow, contrasting with the blue-black berries this plant produces. Its height varies wildly from 1.5 to 6 feet tall.
 Noteworthy characteristics: All parts of the plant may cause irritation if ingested. Native to the eastern U.S.
 Care: Grow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full to partial shade.
 Propagation: Sow seed in autumn in a cold frame; divide plants in autumn or spring.
 Problems: Slugs, sawfly larvae.
Height 3 ft. to 6 ft.
Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Growth Habit Spreads
Growth Pace Moderate Grower
Light Part Shade to Full Shade
Moisture Medium Moisture
Maintenance Low
Characteristics Native; Showy Flowers; Showy Fruit
Bloom Time Spring
Flower Color White Flower
Uses Beds and Borders, Ground Covers, Naturalizing
Style Shade, Herb Garden, Woodland Garden
Seasonal Interest Spring Interest, Summer Interest, Fall Interest
Type Perennials

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