Solomon's seal
Solomon's seal is a common name for several perennial flowering plants in the genus Polygonatum.
Solomon's seal is a common name for several perennial flowering plants in the genus Polygonatum. These shade-loving plants are known for arching stems, dangling greenish-white flowers, and berries, and they are native across much of the temperate Northern Hemisphere. The name refers to the scar patterns left on rhizomes, which resemble the seal traditionally associated with King Solomon.
Taxonomy and naming
Solomon's seal refers to species in the genus Polygonatum. The plants were formerly placed in the lily family in older classifications but are now placed in Asparagaceae.
Description
Solomon's seal plants are herbaceous perennials with arching stems, alternate-looking leaves arranged in two rows, and small tubular flowers that hang beneath the stem. The rhizomes are thick and creeping, and the scar patterns on them gave rise to the common name.
Distribution and habitat
Species of Polygonatum occur across the temperate Northern Hemisphere, with many species in Asia and others native to North America and Europe. They typically grow in damp woods, shaded thickets, and other moist, partly shaded habitats. Several Solomon's seal species are native to Canada and are also grown in Canadian shade gardens as ornamental woodland plants.
Uses and toxicity
Some species have been used in traditional medicine and as edible plants when properly prepared, including young shoots in some contexts. However, the berries and other parts of many species are considered poisonous to humans.
Key facts
- The name Solomon's seal applies to multiple species in the genus Polygonatum.
- Plants have arching stems, two rows of leaves, and dangling greenish-white flowers.
- They are commonly found in shaded, moist woodland habitats.
- The berries are poisonous to humans, and some species can cause vomiting or diarrhoea if eaten.
- The common name comes from the seal-like scars on the rhizomes.
Several Solomon's seal species are native to Canada and are also grown in Canadian shade gardens as ornamental woodland plants.
Frequently asked questions
What is Solomon's seal?
What family does Solomon's seal belong to?
Why is it called Solomon's seal?
Where does Solomon's seal grow?
Is Solomon's seal poisonous?
References
- Wisconsin Horticulture — https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/solomons-seal-polygonatum-spp/Supports: Solomon's seal as Polygonatum spp.; ornamental use; number of species; traditional uses.
- NC State Extension Plant Toolbox — https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/polygonatum-biflorum/Supports: Polygonatum biflorum description, native range including Canada, family, height, flowers, fruit, and toxicity.
- Missouri Department of Conservation — https://www.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/solomons-sealSupports: Scientific name Polygonatum biflorum; family Asparagaceae; native woodland wildflower.
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/plant/Solomons-sealSupports: Genus definition, distribution, habitat, flower and fruit description, and distinction from false Solomon's seal.