Polygonatum falcatum 'Variegatum' (Solomon's Seal) — Perennial

Overview

Polygonatum falcatum 'Variegatum' is a perennial in the genus Polygonatum, part of the Q134172 family. It typically grows around 0.6 m tall. Polygonatum falcatum 'Variegatum' grows best in full shade, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include shade gardens, woodland gardens and ground cover. It is native to Japan and Korea.

About

Polygonatum falcatum 'Variegatum' is a variegated perennial Solomon's seal that forms neat clumps to about 0.6 m. It favours full shade and reliably flowers from April to June. The cultivar's patterned leaves make it useful as a shaded ground cover. It suits moist but well-drained soils of sandy, loamy or clay texture.

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

In the garden

Polygonatum falcatum 'Variegatum' is a perennial from Japan and Korea valued for its variegated foliage and compact habit. It typically reaches around 0.6 m and flowers in the spring, with the UK flowering period running from April to June. In UK hardiness terms it is H7 (fully hardy) and also corresponds to USDA zones 4–8. Plant in a shady spot — full shade is recommended — where soil remains moist but well drained; it tolerates sandy, loamy or clay soils provided they do not dry out completely. Position it beneath taller shrubs or trees where the variegated leaves can form a light, patterned understorey and avoid exposed, sun-baked sites. Use it in shade gardens, woodland-style borders or as a ground cover where a controlled, clump-forming perennial is required. Clumps hold their shape to roughly 0.6 m and the spring flowering adds seasonal structure beneath larger plants, so place it where the spring blooms and variegated leaves can be seen at close range.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Polygonatum

Sunlight: Full shade
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil moisture: Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
Exposure: Shade
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Polygonatum falcatum 'Variegatum' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial
Height: 0.6 m
Suggested uses: Shade gardens, woodland gardens, ground cover
Native to: Japan, Korea

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Polygonatum falcatum 'Variegatum'

Cultivation: Prefers moist, well-drained soil in shaded or woodland settings; tolerant of a range of soil types.
Pruning: Remove dead or damaged stems in early spring before new growth begins.
Propagation: Division in spring or autumn; seed propagation is slow and less common.

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Polygonatum falcatum 'Variegatum'?

Prefers moist, well-drained soil in shaded or woodland settings; tolerant of a range of soil types.

Where is the best place to plant Polygonatum falcatum 'Variegatum'?

Polygonatum falcatum 'Variegatum' prefers full shade. It suits shade positions.

What soil does Polygonatum falcatum 'Variegatum' need?

Polygonatum falcatum 'Variegatum' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Polygonatum falcatum 'Variegatum'?

Remove dead or damaged stems in early spring before new growth begins.

How big does Polygonatum falcatum 'Variegatum' grow?

Polygonatum falcatum 'Variegatum' reaches a height of 0.6 m.

Is Polygonatum falcatum 'Variegatum' hardy in the UK?

Polygonatum falcatum 'Variegatum' 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 falcatum 'Variegatum'?

Division in spring or autumn; seed propagation is slow and less common.

More in the Polygonatum genus

Browse all Polygonatum →