Maianthemum racemosum aka False Solomon's Seal
Taxonomy
Maianthemum racemosum, also known as treacleberry, feathery false lily of the valley, false Solomon's seal, Solomon's plume, or false spikenard, is a common and widespread herbaceous perennial plant native to North America. It can be found in every US state except Hawaii, every Canadian province and territory except Nunavut and the Yukon, as well as in Mexico. The plant grows to a height of 50-90 cm and produces 7-12 alternate, oblong-lanceolate leaves that are 7-15 cm long and 3-6 cm broad. The plant blooms in mid-spring, producing seven to 250 small flowers on a 10-15 cm panicle with well-developed branches. Each flower has six white tepals that are 3-6 mm long and is set on a short pedicel that is usually less than 1 mm long. The plant produces fruit that is rounded to 3-lobed and green with copper spots when young, turning red in late summer. False Solomon's Seal is a relatively easy-to-grow houseplant that prefers abundant sunlight and well-draining soil. Regular watering is necessary for optimal growth, and fertilizer should not be necessary if the plant is repotted each time it doubles in size.
Common names
False Solomon's Seal, Solomon's Plume, Large False Solomon's SealHow to care for False Solomon's Seal
Difficulty
Caring for False Solomon's Seal is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.
Water
False Solomon's Seal should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
False Solomon's Seal loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the False Solomon's Seal prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.
Fertilizer
The False Solomon's Seal is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.
Growth-pattern
New growth will sprout from the top of the False Solomon's Seal as it grows vertically.
More info:
Wikipedia
