Polygonatum verticillatum
whorled Solomon's seal
Overview
Polygonatum verticillatum is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial in the Asparagaceae family, growing 24-48 inches (60-120 cm) tall and spreading slowly to form clumps 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) wide. Unlike the arching stems of common Solomon's seal, this species has slender, upright stems carrying narrow lance-shaped leaves arranged in whorls of three to six at each node. In late spring to early summer small, narrow, greenish-white tubular flowers hang in clusters from the leaf axils. Spherical berries follow, ripening from green through red, and are toxic if eaten. The plant grows from a creeping rhizome and spreads gradually into woodland colonies. Polygonatum verticillatum is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8 and grows in part shade to full shade in moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil. In dry soil or full sun the foliage scorches and growth weakens. It dies back fully in autumn, the stems yellowing before they fade. Sawfly larvae can strip the foliage in summer in some gardens. The berries and other parts are toxic if eaten. Native to mountain woodlands across Europe and temperate Asia, it is grown in woodland gardens, shaded borders, and naturalistic plantings.
Native Range
Polygonatum verticillatum is native to mountain woodlands, shaded slopes, and stream banks across Europe and temperate Asia. It grows in cool, moist, shaded ground rich in leaf litter.Suggested Uses
Grown in woodland gardens, shaded and north-facing borders, and naturalistic plantings, spaced 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart. The whorled foliage and hanging flowers suit cool, moist shade. It pairs with ferns, hostas, and other woodland perennials.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height2' - 4'
Width/Spread1' - 2'
Reaches mature size in approximately 3 years
Bloom Information
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
GreenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Tolerates up to 4 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Grows in part shade to full shade in moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil. Water needs are medium to high, and dry soil or full sun scorch the foliage and weaken growth. In USDA zones 4 through 8 it is cold hardy and dies back fully in autumn, returning from a creeping rhizome. A mulch of leaf mold holds moisture and feeds the clump. Sawfly larvae can strip the leaves in summer in some gardens. The berries and other parts are toxic if eaten.Pruning
Yellowing stems are cut to the ground in autumn once they have died back. No other regular pruning is needed. Congested clumps can be lifted and divided in early spring.Pruning Schedule
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
fall
Container Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 3 gallons