Polygonatum verticillatum aka Whorled Solomon's Seal

Polygonatum verticillatum is known as whorled Solomon's seal. It belongs to the asparagus family, Asparagaceae. Its native range spans Europe to China and northwestern Myanmar. This perennial grows from underground rhizomes and forms clumps. In the wild, it grows along woodland edges and in clearings. It also grows in shaded, rocky places, often on acid soil.

Garden plants reach about 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre] tall. Their spread is about 0.3–1.6 feet [0.1–0.5 metres]. The RHS describes upright stems reaching 3 feet [0.9 metres]. Narrow, lance-shaped leaves attach straight to the stems without stalks. Most leaves form whorls, though some grow in opposite pairs. The plant sheds its leaves each year. It takes about two to five years to reach full size.

Flowers appear from late spring into the middle of summer. Groups of one to four hang from the leaf axils. Each flower forms a small, greenish-white tube. Small red berries follow the flowers. The upright stems, leaf whorls, and hanging blooms suit shaded borders. Suggested settings include cottage gardens, courtyards, and informal flower beds. PFAF also lists it for woodland gardens and shaded edges.

Grow it in fertile soil rich in humus. Keep the soil moist, but let excess water drain away. The RHS lists clay, chalk, loam, and sand as suitable soils. It also accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline conditions. The RHS allows sun, partial shade, or full shade. PFAF favours dappled shade and shaded edges rather than deep shade. A sheltered site fits the RHS guidance. Its RHS hardiness rating is H7, covering temperatures below −20°C. PFAF lists USDA zones 4–8. Divide clumps in spring, and cut stems down in late autumn.

Slugs and Solomon's seal sawfly may attack the plant. The RHS reports few disease problems. Food-use reports need care because the sources differ on safety. PFAF records cooked tender leaves, young shoots, and starch-rich roots as edible. It lists no known medicinal or other uses. The RHS warns that eating the plant can harm people. It also identifies a poisoning risk for dogs. Those warnings mean the food-use records should not be treated as proof of safety. The RHS advises gloves and protective gear when handling it.