WSU Clark County Extension
PNW Plants Searchable, categorized images
              

False Solomon’s Seal

Scientific name: Smilacina racemosa
Taxonomy
Family:Liliaceae
Type:Herbaceous perennials
Native:YES
Plant Requirements
Zone:3 to 8
Sun:Partial shade to full shade
Moisture:Medium
Plant Characteristics
Height:3 ft
Width:2 ft
Bloom:Fragrant flowers
Bloom Time:April to June
Bloom Color:White
Additional Characteristics
Trees


Fruit

Leaves


Bark
Wildlife value

Poisonous
Description Pacific Northwest native plant gardeners enjoy False Solomon’s seal all during the growing season with its arching green leaves and spring flowers.

  Morphology:
This clump-forming perennial, while typically found in the forest, can also be enjoyed in the garden. As the plants emerge in the spring the stems arch from the ground to a height of 2’-3’ bearing dark green alternating leaves which are 6” long and 3” wide. Leaves have parallel venation and a smooth upper surface.

Beginning in April and extending into June plume-like clusters of small, white flowers appear. Flower clusters can consist of 20-80 individual florets. In late summer the flowers give rise to a single seeded quarter-inch berry which turns red. This plant sometimes forms colonies.

  Adaptation:
If grown on moist, humus-rich acidic soil, False Solomon’s seal will eventually forms clusters. For best growth select a shaded to partially sunny spot in the garden. Complimentary plants would include Oregon grape, hostas, and sword fern.

  Pests:
None reported.
For assistance, contact Dr. Charles Brun (brunc@wsu.edu), (360) 397-6060 5701
Computing and Web Resources, PO Box 6234, Washington State University, Pullman WA 99164-6234