False solomon's seal (Maianthemum racemosum)

False solomon's seal

Also known as: False spikenard, Treacleberry

False solomon's seal (*Maianthemum racemosum*) is a flowering woodland plant native to North America. False solomon's seal is also called the Feathery False Lily of the Valley. This plant is named "false Solomon's seal" because it resembles Solomon’s Seal, a flowering plant with red or black berries. Both are in the same family and are frequently found growing together. Native American tribes used false solomon's seal leaves to brew tea.

Scientific classification

Species

False solomon's seal (Maianthemum racemosum)

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Weeds

Weed or not

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Red, Green, Burgundy

Fruit Color

White, Cream, Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Green, Red

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Images of False solomon's seal

Distribution of False solomon's seal

Distribution Map

North America to Mexico is where false solomon's seal naturally resides. You'll only find the plant in this region as it hasn't been introduced anywhere else. False solomon's seal's native ecosystem is the understory of woodland areas.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Moist coniferous and deciduous woods, clearings, bluffs, shaded streamsides

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

False solomon's seal is a North American native forest plant that grows in a shrubby manner, and provides attractive oval foliage and white, upright flower clusters. It is considered a good choice for woodland gardens and native gardens, for shaded beds and perennial borders, and to use as an understory in rose plantings.

Symbolism

hard times, rebuilding, Clustered with small berries

Name Story

False solomon's seal: One of the explanations for the origin of the common name "Solomon's seal" is that the roots hold the impression of royal seals. Therefore, the plant is called False Solomon's seal.

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Toxicity

False solomon's seal resembles multiple poisonous species and can be difficult to distinguish from plants like Solomon's seal and Baneberry. Baneberry depresses the heartbeat and can lead to cardiac arrest. False solomon's seal is mildly toxic to cats and dogs if ingested, causing gastrointestinal upset. Immediate veterinary care is essential if pets show signs of poisoning.

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Quickly Identify False solomon's seal

Arching stems reach 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) tall, bearing lanceolate leaves in alternate arrangement.

White star-shaped flowers form dense clusters with 80 individual blooms per cluster.

Berry-like fruits transition from green to reddish, measuring 1/4 inch (6 mm) in diameter.

Light green leaves with parallel veins, oblong to lance-shaped, 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) long.

Smooth, unbranched stem, vibrant green, slender at 0.1 inches (2-3 mm) diameter, arched form.

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Care Guide for False solomon's seal

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: False solomon's seal thrives in moist, well-drained soil, reflecting its native forest floor habitat. Weekly watering maintains optimal soil moisture. With resilience in moderate humidity, mulching is recommended to retain moisture and regulate temperature during the active growing season for this herbaceous perennial.

Fertilize: False solomon's seal requires balanced fertilizers, such as 10-10-10, applied biannually in spring and mid-summer. Adjust amounts based on size and growth stage, avoiding over-fertilizing. Water before and after fertilizing, and take safety precautions while handling to ensure protection for both false solomon's seal and the gardener.

Pruning: False solomon's seal thrives with early spring pruning, removing dead or damaged stems to promote growth. Trimming spent flower stalks maintains shape and directs energy to new growth. Use clean tools to avoid disease and enhance the plant's vigor and ornamental appeal.

Propagation: False solomon's seal propagates best through division during spring or autumn. It is easy to propagate, with success shown by new growth. A healthy root system is essential for optimal results.

Repotting: Repot false solomon's seal every two years, preferably after flowering in late spring, to support its growth and clumping habit. Use a wider pot for spreading roots. Post-repotting, provide dappled light and even moisture. Ensure false solomon's seal has ample space in a tranquil environment to thrive.

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