Polygonatum × hybridum (garden Solomon's seal) — perennial

Overview

Polygonatum × hybridum is a perennial in the genus Polygonatum, part of the Q134172 family. Polygonatum × hybridum grows best in partial shade and shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, woodland gardens and groundcover. It is native to Europe.

About

Polygonatum × hybridum is a shade-tolerant perennial that produces spring flowers from April to June. It suits moist, well-drained loam, clay or sandy soils across a wide pH range. Often planted in borders or woodland settings, it is used as ground cover where partial shade or shade prevail. Harmful if eaten, so wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling and keep away from pets.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Polygonatum × hybridum

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 × hybridum, commonly called garden Solomon's seal, is a perennial of European origin valued for its spring display and shade tolerance. Flowering runs from April to June, making it useful for filling late-spring gaps beneath trees or taller perennials. It performs best in partial shade to shade and tolerates loam, clay or sandy soils, provided they remain moist yet well drained. The species accepts acidic to alkaline pH, so it adapts to a wide range of soil chemistries found in UK gardens. Hardiness is rated H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK without winter protection. Plant where soil moisture can be maintained and avoid baking sun; a sheltered, dappled site mirrors its woodland origins. Use it in mixed borders where lower light limits other perennials, in naturalised or woodland schemes, or as a low ground cover beneath shrubs. Take care when lifting or dividing and wear gloves and other protective equipment, as the foliage is harmful if eaten. It is also toxic to pets if eaten (dogs) — see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Polygonatum

Sunlight: partial shade, shade
Soil type: loam, clay, sandy
Soil pH: acidic, neutral, alkaline
Soil moisture: moist, well-drained
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Polygonatum × hybridum size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Suggested uses: borders, woodland gardens, groundcover
Native to: Europe
Toxicity: Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and and other protective equipment when handling TOXIC to pets if eaten (dogs) - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Polygonatum × hybridum

Cultivation: Prefers shaded or partially shaded positions with moist, well-drained soil. Mulch in spring to retain moisture.
Pruning: Remove old stems in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Propagation: Division in spring or autumn; seed propagation is slow and less common.

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Polygonatum × hybridum?

Prefers shaded or partially shaded positions with moist, well-drained soil. Mulch in spring to retain moisture.

Where is the best place to plant Polygonatum × hybridum?

Polygonatum × hybridum prefers partial shade and shade.

What soil does Polygonatum × hybridum need?

Polygonatum × hybridum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including loam, clay and sandy. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist to well-drained.

How do I prune Polygonatum × hybridum?

Remove old stems in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.

Is Polygonatum × hybridum hardy in the UK?

Polygonatum × hybridum has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Polygonatum × hybridum?

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

Is Polygonatum × hybridum toxic?

Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and and other protective equipment when handling TOXIC to pets if eaten (dogs) - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers.

More in the Polygonatum genus

Browse all Polygonatum →