Overview
Polygonatum commutatum is a plant with a spreading branched habit in the genus Polygonatum, part of the Asparagaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Polygonatum commutatum grows best in full sun, partial shade and full shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include flower borders and beds and underplanting of roses and shrubs.
About
Polygonatum biflorum is an herbaceous flowering plant native to eastern and central North America. The plant is said to possess scars on the rhizome that resemble the ancient Hebrew seal of King Solomon.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Polygonatum biflorum
About the genus
Polygonatum, also known as King Solomon's-seal, Solomon's seal, or sealwort, is a genus of flowering plants. In the APG III classification system, it is placed in the family Asparagaceae, subfamily Convallarioideae. It has also been classified in the former family Convallariaceae and, like many lilioid monocots, was formerly classified in the lily family, Liliaceae.
Wikipedia contributors, "Polygonatum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Polygonatum
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Polygonatum
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade, Full shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Polygonatum commutatum size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Spreading branched
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Flower borders and beds, Underplanting of roses and shrubs
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Polygonatum commutatum
- Propagation
- Division in spring
- Pest resistance
- Slugs, Solomon's seal sawfly
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Polygonatum commutatum?
Polygonatum commutatum prefers full sun, partial shade and full shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Polygonatum commutatum need?
Polygonatum commutatum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Polygonatum commutatum hardy in the UK?
Polygonatum commutatum has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Polygonatum commutatum?
Division in spring.
More in the Polygonatum genus
- Polygonatum canaliculatumSolomon's Seal
- Polygonatum curvistylum
- Polygonatum falcatumsickle-shaped Solomon's seal
- Polygonatum falcatum 'Variegatum'Solomon's Seal
- Polygonatum latifoliumbroad-leaved Solomon's seal
- Polygonatum × hybridum 'Flore Pleno'Double-flowered Solomon's Seal
- Polygonatum × hybridum 'Variegatum'Variegated Solomon's Seal