Maianthemum racemosum aka False Solomon's Seal

Maianthemum racemosum is a perennial called false Solomon's seal. It belongs to the asparagus family, Asparagaceae. Its native range spans North America and reaches Chihuahua, Mexico. It grows in woods, including rich forests in Missouri. In North Carolina, it grows from the coast to the mountains. The name Smilacina racemosa refers to the same species.

Plants form clumps with stems that rise and arch. Garden plants reach 2–3 feet [0.61–0.91 metres] tall. RHS gives an upper height of 3.3 feet [1 metre]. Reported spreads range from 0.3–3 feet [0.1–0.91 metres]. Thick rhizomes spread slowly and can build large colonies. The green stems do not branch and may zigzag. Light green leaves grow in turn along each stem. They have pointed tips, smooth edges, and clear parallel veins. Leaves reach 6 inches long and turn yellow in autumn. The leaves die back each fall, then return in spring.

Small, scented, cream-white flowers cluster at the stem tips. Each star-shaped flower has six tepals. A cluster may hold as many as 80 flowers. Bloom falls in April and May in Missouri. In North Carolina, flowers can last into June. Green berries follow the flowers and turn red in summer. Fruit may remain into autumn unless wildlife eats it. Birds and small mammals eat berries and spread their seeds. Bees, beetles, moths, and flies visit the plant.

Grow it in partial shade or deep shade. It needs moist soil that drains well. Rich, loose soil with plenty of humus suits it best. It tolerates sand and rocky ground, as well as loam. RHS also lists clay and acid to neutral soil. Hot, humid summers can cause poor growth. Avoid disturbing roots while the plant becomes established. Sources give USDA zones 2–8 or 3–8 and UK rating H6. Use it in woodland beds, native gardens, or shaded borders. It fits beside ferns and hostas, or near streams and ponds. Sources report few pest or disease problems. It needs no pruning.

Food sources describe edible fruit, young shoots, and processed roots. They describe eating berries fresh or using them in preserves. Large amounts of raw fruit may have a laxative effect. RHS warns against eating the fruit and flags risks to pets. These safety accounts conflict, so edibility does not establish harmlessness. Historical records also describe medicinal use of roots and leaves.