Polygonatum odoratum 'Variegatum'
 |
VARIEGATED SOLOMON'S SEAL
Family: Liliaceae
Pronounced: po-lig-oh-NAY-tum oh-dor-AY-tum
GROWING GUIDE
Geographic Origin:
Garden.
Plant Group:
Perennials.
 |
Mature size: Height: 2 feet (60 cm). Width: 1 foot (30 cm).
Flowering period: May-June.
Flowering attributes: Delicate, creamy-white, fragrant, bell shaped flowers dangle from an arching stem.
Leaf attributes: Arching stems carry alternate, lance shaped, green leaves with white margins.
Growth habit: Creeping.
Light: Partial to full shade.
Soil: Fertile, humus rich, moist but well-drained soil.
Feeding: Side dress with compost and bark mulch.
Propagation Methods: Sow seed in pots and place in cold frame in autumn; may take up to a year to germinate. | Divide in spring or autumn.
Rainy Side Notes
I thought I would introduce to you (if you don't already know it), Polygonatum odoratum 'Variegatum'
 |
I often think about this quietly beautiful shade plant. The twin white bells contrast with the burgundy stems, where they dangle in pairs and give off a delicate lily-like fragrance. The magical looking leaves are a wonderful shade of green and appear as if someone took a soft brush and painted white along the margins. I usually have to go hunt this plant out in my garden, as I have it hidden behind shrubs. Every time I find it, it adds charm to my day.
Burgundy, arching stems carry the foliage and flowers gracefully. This is a great addition to the woodland garden, brightening up the shade. The plant is also a nice backdrop for the ephemeral plants of spring. It is a creeper, but who wouldn't want to see polygonatum slowly creeping through the woods.
Debra Teachout-Teashon
Photographed in author's garden.
Tell a friend about this page!
Questions, comments or suggestions? Would you like to communicate with other Pacific Northwest gardeners? Please join us on our forum.
Or click on corresponding letter below.
A - B - C - D - E - F - G - H - I - K - L - M - O - P - R - S - T - V