WSU Clark County Extension
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Variegated Solomon’s Seal

Scientific name: Polygonatum odoratum 'Variegatum'
Taxonomy
Family:Liliaceae
Type:Groundcovers Herbaceus
Native:NO
Plant Requirements
Zone:4 to 8
Sun:Partial shade to full shade
Moisture:Dry
Plant Characteristics
Height:2 ft
Width:4 ft
Bloom Time:May to June
Bloom Color:White
Additional Characteristics
Trees


Fruit

Leaves


Bark
Wildlife value

Poisonous
Description Gardeners with a shady spot will enjoy the crisp, clean foliage of Variegated Solomon’s Seal. The white leaf edges contrast nicely with the otherwise green foliage.

  Morphology:
This herbaceous perennial grows up to 2’ tall and eventually more than 3’ across, sending up gracefully arching stems, all of which arise from a densely branched rhizomatous root system. Over time, under the presence of good shade and fertile organic site, large colonies can form. The leaves grow up to four inches long and are bordered with a wide white margin that makes it glow in a shady site in the garden. Leaves are arranged in an alternate fashion. The stems are burgundy in color.

Delicate, creamy-white, fragrant, bell shaped flowers dangle from an arching stem in May through June. Often flowers will morph to single-seeded blue-black berries.

  Adaptation:
Variegated Solomon’s Seal is easily grown in reasonably fertile soil in the shade garden. Plants benefit from the presence of some organic matter in the soil.

  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