Maianthemum stellatum aka False Solomon's Seal

Maianthemum stellatum is a perennial in the asparagus family. Gardeners call it starflower or starry false Solomon's seal. The name Smilacina stellata refers to the same species. Its native range spans subarctic North America to northeastern Mexico. It grows in woods, thickets, open meadows, and sand dunes. Wild plants also grow along woodland edges and on alluvial soils. This plant comes from temperate regions, not Britain or Ireland.

Underground rhizomes creep outward and form patches of upright stems. The narrow leaves have pointed tips and clasp the stems. The plant sheds its leaves each year. Stems reach about 2 feet [0.6 metres] tall. RHS gives a garden height range of 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre]. Its spread can reach 3.3–4.9 feet [1–1.5 metres]. Plants take two to five years to reach full size. Their spreading habit suits sites where patches have room to grow.

Small white flowers form clusters at the stem tips. Each flower has a star shape and a light scent. Missouri Botanical Garden gives May to June as the bloom season. Chicago also lists flowers during March and April. The berries add colour after the flowers fade. They begin green with black stripes, then turn red with stripes. At last, they become black. The fruit grows in small clusters and is about pea-sized. Chicago Botanic Garden lists the plant as attracting birds.

Grow it in partial shade with moist soil that drains well. RHS recommends humus-rich soil with moderate fertility and no lime. Acid or neutral soil suits it, including clay, loam, and sand. Give it shelter from cold winds. Missouri Botanical Garden lists USDA zones 3–7; RHS rates it H7. It suits woodland gardens and the edges of ponds or streams. It also grows alongside hostas and ferns. Use it as ground cover or beneath shrubs and roses. No pruning is needed, and serious pests or diseases are uncommon. Divide rhizomes in spring, or sow seed in autumn in a cold frame.

Sources disagree about whether this plant is safe to eat. PFAF describes edible fruit, young leaves, and spring shoots. It notes that raw fruit can have a laxative effect. It also records past medicinal uses by Indigenous North American peoples. These records do not establish safe or effective treatments. RHS warns that people and pets must not eat the fruit. It also advises protective gear when handling the plant. These conflicting reports mean its food uses need caution.