Polygonatum odoratum 'Variegatum'

VARIEGATED SOLOMON'S SEAL
Family: Liliaceae
Pronounced: po-lig-oh-NAY-tum oh-dor-AY-tum

Quick Jumps

Growing Guide
Rainy Side Notes

---

GROWING GUIDE

Origin:
Garden.
Plant Group:
Perennials.
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: 1-7, 15-17.
USDA zones: 4-8.
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' commonly called Solomon's seal, although this one is a variegated form.

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.

Photographed in author's garden.