Polygonatum multiflorum aka Solomon's Seal

Taxonomy

Polygonatum multiflorum, also known as Solomon's seal, David's harp, ladder-to-heaven, or Eurasian Solomon's seal, is a rhizomatous perennial plant belonging to the family Asparagaceae. It is native to Europe and temperate Asia and is one of three native species of the genus in Britain. This plant grows up to 90 cm tall with arching stems and alternate leaves. Its tubular white flowers with green tips hang from the undersides of the stems, and it produces round black fruit. The specific epithet multiflorum refers to its many-flowered nature. The hybrid Polygonatum × hybridum, a cross between P. multiflorum and P. odoratum, has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. The Polygonatum genus, also known as King Solomon's-seal, consists of 74 species and hybrids distributed throughout the temperate Northern Hemisphere. Most of these species are found in Asia, with 20 endemic to China. The name "Polygonatum" derives from the Greek words for "many knees," referring to its jointed rhizome. The common name "Solomon's seal" may have originated from the depressions on the roots resembling royal seals or Hebrew characters. The fruits of Polygonatum plants are red or black berries, and many species have been used as food in China, with leaves, stems, and rhizomes being consumed raw or cooked as a side dish with meat and rice.

Common names

Solomon's Seal, Eurasian Solomon's Seal, Common Solomons Seal

How to care for Solomon's Seal

Difficulty

If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Solomon's Seal is a great choice to test your gardening skills.

Water

Solomon's Seal should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

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 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 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.

Region of origin

Solomon's Seal’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from Scandanavia south and east to Spain, and temperate Asia to Japan.


More info:
Wikipedia