About
This perennial with slightly arching stems to 1.2m, bearing ovate leaves and small axillary clusters of nodding, tubular creamy-white flowers tipped with green, appearing in late spring, and 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
SunlightFull shade, Full sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitSpreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesHerbaceous borders, cottage gardens, cutting.
Native toEurope
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 any fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in full sun, partial shade or 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