Overview
Polygonatum stenanthum is a bushy herbaceous perennial in the genus Polygonatum, part of the Asparagaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1.5-2.5 metres tall and 1-1.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 5-10 years. Polygonatum stenanthum grows best in partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is low maintenance. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden and city and courtyard gardens.
About
Polygonatum stenanthum is a perennial plant that forms clumps and features rhizomes. It produces arching stems that can reach heights of up to 2 meters, adorned with broadly ovate leaves measuring as much as 30 centimeters in length. In late spring and early summer, this species showcases hanging, bell-shaped flowers in shades of green and white, which are succeeded by black berries.
About the genus
Polygonatum comprises rhizomatous herbaceous perennials characterized by upright or arching stems that support shiny, elliptical leaves. These plants produce drooping, tubular or bell-like flowers, which may later give rise to black or red berries.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Polygonatum
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Polygonatum stenanthum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Spread
- 1-1.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 5-10 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens
- 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 stenanthum
- Cultivation
- Grow in fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in partial shade
- Pruning
- Cut back to the base in late autumn
- Propagation
- Propagate by division in spring taking care not to damage young brittle shoots
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to slugs and solomon's seal sawfly
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Polygonatum stenanthum?
Grow in fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in partial shade.
Where is the best place to plant Polygonatum stenanthum?
Polygonatum stenanthum prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Polygonatum stenanthum need?
Polygonatum stenanthum 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.
How do I prune Polygonatum stenanthum?
Cut back to the base in late autumn.
How big does Polygonatum stenanthum grow?
Polygonatum stenanthum reaches a height of 1.5-2.5 metres and a spread of 1-1.5 metres. It takes around 5-10 years to reach full size.
Is Polygonatum stenanthum hardy in the UK?
Polygonatum stenanthum has a UK hardiness rating of H7.
How do I propagate Polygonatum stenanthum?
Propagate by division in spring taking care not to damage young brittle shoots.
Is Polygonatum stenanthum 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.