The Gardens | Woodland Garden

false Solomon’s seal

Maianthemum racemosum


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Family

Asparagaceae

Description

False Solomon’s seal is a native woodland perennial known for its graceful, arching stems and feathery clusters of creamy white flowers that appear at the tip of each stem in spring. Often confused with true Solomon’s seal (Polygonatum spp.), it is easily distinguished by its terminal flower clusters rather than axillary ones. In summer, the flowers give way to speckled berries that ripen to a translucent red, providing seasonal interest and food for birds.

Native to rich, deciduous forests across most of North America, Maianthemum racemosum thrives in moist, humus-rich soil with part to full shade. It is well-suited to naturalistic plantings and shaded woodland borders, where it can slowly colonize through rhizomes. Its adaptability and subtle charm make it a staple in native plant gardens and ecological restorations.

Bloom Time

May to June

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