Smooth solomon's-seal (Polygonatum biflorum)

Smooth solomon's-seal

Also known as: Great solomon's seal

Smooth solomon's-seal (Polygonatum biflorum) has scars on its rhizome (an underground stem) that look like ancient Hebrew writing - thus the name that references the Hebrew King Solomon. It produces small white bell-shaped flowers in spring and blue-purple berries afterwards. Care must be taken since the berries are poisonous to human.

Scientific classification

Species

Smooth solomon's-seal (Polygonatum biflorum)

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

1.2 m to 1.5 m

Plant Height

60 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

4 mm to 7 mm

Flower Size

Black, Blue

Fruit Color

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Images of Smooth solomon's-seal

Culture

Garden Use

Smooth solomon's-seal is a plant that grows in shady woodland or naturalized gardens. It is prized for its beautiful foliage and delicate flowers. It is ideal for planting underneath trees or in shady borders, and combining it with ferns or astilbe is a common choice.

Symbolism

Wisdom and peace

Name Story

Smooth solomon's -seal: The plant is said to possess "scars" on rhizome that look like the ancient Hebrew seal of King Solomon. In addition, the leaves exhibit a smooth surface. Therefore, it is commonly called smooth Solomon's seal.

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Quickly Identify Smooth solomon's-seal

Arching stems up to 3 feet (90 cm) long

Distinctive lanceolate leaves, glossy upper surface

Bell-shaped cream flowers with greenish-white tepals

Bluish-black berries, twinned with smooth texture

Smooth, unbranched stem reaching 1-5 feet (30-150 cm)

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Care Guide for Smooth solomon's-seal

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Smooth solomon's-seal prefers moist, well-drained soil and thrives in dappled light with consistent humidity. Water weekly to ensure hydration without over-saturation. This herbaceous perennial benefits from careful watering during its active growing season for optimal growth and health.

Fertilize: For smooth solomon's-seal, use a balanced fertilizer monthly during the active growing season (spring to early summer) at half-strength. Decrease fertilization after flowering, and suspend in winter. Ensure soil is moist before application to enhance absorption and prevent root burn.

Pruning: Smooth solomon's-seal features arching stems with small flower clusters. Prune in early spring to remove dead stems and shape the plant, cutting back woody growth just above the base. Avoid heavy pruning to reduce stress. Regular pruning enhances growth and flowering, supporting smooth solomon's-seal's vitality.

Propagation: Smooth solomon's-seal propagates best through division during spring or autumn. This method has moderate difficulty, showing success through new shoots and roots. Maintaining appropriate soil moisture is crucial for optimal results.

Repotting: Smooth solomon's-seal is a shade-loving, medium-sized ground cover that should be repotted every 2-3 years in early spring. Use a wide, shallow container for its rhizomatous roots. Maintain moist soil and shade to ensure healthy, arching stems.

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