Water
Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot. Water more frequently during active growth in spring and summer, reducing in fall and winter.
Also known as American Solomon's-Seal · Common Solomon's Seal · False Solomon Seal
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Smooth Solomon's Seal (Polygonatum biflorum) is a woodland perennial with arching stems bearing white, bell-shaped flowers in spring and blue-black berries in fall.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial shade to full shade
25% intensity
Thrives in dappled shade or under deciduous trees. Can tolerate some morning sun.
Consistent moisture
50% intensity
Prefers moist but well-drained soil. Avoid drying out or waterlogging.
Loam, Sandy Loam, Clay Loam, Humus Rich
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures, hardy in USDA zones 4-9. Protect from extreme heat.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low
25% intensity
Benefits from a light feeding in spring or a top dressing of compost. Not a heavy feeder.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 2/5 intensity |
Mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested, causing stomach upset.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot. Water more frequently during active growth in spring and summer, reducing in fall and winter.
Minimal pruning is required. Remove dead or damaged stems at the base in late fall or early spring. Deadheading spent flowers is not necessary, as the seed pods can be attractive.
Avoid cutting back live foliage until it yellows naturally.
Propagate by division of rhizomes in early spring or fall. Carefully separate sections of the rhizome, ensuring each piece has at least one bud. Replant immediately at the same depth as before.
Repot container-grown plants every 2-3 years in early spring or fall. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current root ball to avoid overwatering issues.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Smooth Solomon's Seal (Polygonatum biflorum)
Where Smooth Solomon's Seal (Polygonatum biflorum) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Polygonatum |
| Species | Polygonatum biflorum |
Similar in genus Polygonatum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
