Polygonatum × hybridum
common Solomon's seal
The graceful, arching stems that are clothed in large, dark green, slightly pleated leaves, which each have waxy-blue undersides, are enough to earn this plant its place in the garden. But in early summer, when the stems are strung with clusters of green-tipped, white flowers that hang like little bells, it is simply gorgeous. The flowers are followed by small, black fruit. Solomon's Seal prefers a cool position in a shady spot and looks wonderful in a woodland setting among shade-loving ferns.
How to care for Polygonatum × hybridum:
Plant Polygonatum in moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil and keep it out of hot, dry positions, as it dislikes drying out. Choose partial to full shade, such as beneath shrubs or along a north-facing border, where the soil stays cool. When planting, mix in plenty of leafmould or garden compost to improve moisture retention, and water regularly during the first season to help the rhizomes establish.
After flowering, keep the soil evenly moist through summer. In autumn, cut the stems down to ground level once they yellow. Apply a thick mulch of well-rotted leafmould or compost in spring to feed the plant and keep the soil damp. Lift and divide large clumps in early spring before the shoots emerge, handling the rhizomes carefully to avoid damaging the tender growing points.
After flowering, keep the soil evenly moist through summer. In autumn, cut the stems down to ground level once they yellow. Apply a thick mulch of well-rotted leafmould or compost in spring to feed the plant and keep the soil damp. Lift and divide large clumps in early spring before the shoots emerge, handling the rhizomes carefully to avoid damaging the tender growing points.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
1.5m
Eventual spread:
0.3m
Position:
Light shade / shade
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
-
This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
-
Pets: TOXIC if eaten; Humans: Harmful if eaten
2 litre pot
£20.99
In stock
(shipped within 2-3 working days)
(shipped within 2-3 working days)
9cm pot
£12.99
available to order from spring
Unavailable
3 × 9cm pots
£27.99
£9.33 each
available to order from spring
Unavailable
6 × 9cm pots
£39.99
£6.67 each
available to order from spring
Unavailable
1
