About
A clump-forming, rhizomatous perennial with arching shoots up to 2m bearing broadly ovate leaves up to 30cm long. Hanging, bell-shaped, green and white flowers are produced in late spring and early summer, followed by black berries.
About the genus
Polygonatum are rhizomatous herbaceous perennials with erect or arching stems bearing glossy, elliptic leaves and pendent, tubular or bell-shaped flowers, sometimes followed by black or red berries
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens
ToxicityHarmful 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
CultivationGrow in fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in partial shade
PruningCut back to the base in late autumn
PropagationPropagate by division in spring taking care not to damage young brittle shoots
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and solomon's seal sawfly
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free