Solomon's Seal (Polygonatum biflorum)
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Deciduous Perennial in the Asparagaceae Family

Polygonatum biflorum, commonly known as the Small Solomon's Seal or Solomon's Plume, is a charming, woodland-dwelling perennial native to the eastern and central regions of North America. This delicate plant is prized for its arching, leafy stems and pendant, bell-shaped flowers that dangle gracefully along the stem.

Growing to a height of 24-36 inches, Polygonatum biflorum is characterized by its lush, green foliage and distinctive, ridged stems. The plant's leaves are oblong in shape, arranged alternately along the stem, and can reach up to 6 inches in length. In late spring to early summer, the Small Solomon's Seal produces clusters of small, white or greenish-white flowers that hang in pairs along the stem, creating a delicate, waterfall-like effect.

After the flowers fade, Polygonatum biflorum develops spherical, bluish-black berries that ripen in the fall, adding a pop of color to the plant's foliage. These berries are an important food source for various wildlife, including birds and small mammals.

Preferring partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soils, the Small Solomon's Seal thrives in woodland settings, shaded borders, and naturalized areas. Its clumping, rhizomatous growth habit makes it an excellent choice for groundcover, edging, and erosion control.

Beyond its ornamental value, Polygonatum biflorum has a long history of use in herbal medicine, with the plant's rhizomes and roots being used to treat a variety of ailments, including skin conditions and digestive issues.

Whether admired for its delicate, pendulous flowers, its attractive foliage, or its historical significance, the Small Solomon's Seal is a beloved and versatile addition to any shaded garden or natural landscape.
 

Plant Data

Mature Size 24 - 36 inches tall. 12 - 18 inches wide.
Sun Exposure Partial Sun - Full Shade
Moisture Tolerance Medium - Wet
Zones 3a - 9b (Usually hardy to -40° F)
Tags Deciduous, Full Shade, Medium, Partial Sun, Perennial, Rabbit Resistant, Wet
Bloom Period May - July
Flower Color Greenish White
 

More Info from Experts

Photos of This with...

Black Alder
 
Small Solomon's Seal, in bloom
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Pricing and Availability History

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Limited Availability

We try very hard to source exactly what you’d like, but sometimes growers run out of plants! While this variety is a great deal at the price shown, we know that it has limited availability. If you want the plant even if it might be more expensive, or in a different size or quantity -- after you place your order, just send us a quick note at help@northshoreplantclub.com. Then, we’ll try to get you some version of this from one of our growers. And if we can’t get it from anywhere, of course, we’ll send a refund!


Field-Grown vs. Greenhouse-Grown Plants

Plants which are well-adapted to our local climate are most often field-grown (outside). Field-grown plants are generally cheaper and have the advantage of already somewhat acclimated to our cold winters, but that means they’re not artificially far along in the spring and tend to bloom at the normal time in our area.

Spring annuals and tender perennials are typically grown in Greenhouses so they can be ready and luxurious exactly when customers want them. Some perennials are also “forced” into early bloom in greenhouses. In May, there can be a very big difference between field-grown and greenhouse-grown plants of the same type. The latter typically look good right away (so they’re a great choice where that’s important), but we typically pay a premium for it.


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No Pricing or Availability Right Now

We order from a rotating cast of the best nurseries in the Great Lakes region. It looks like we've offered this plant in the past, but the nurseries we're working with this week don't appear to have it in stock at the moment.

Our goal is to bring as many plants together under "one roof" as possible, so we'll try hard to make it available again in the future!