Great Solomon's Seal (Polygonatum biflorum var. commutatum)

Great Solomon's Seal
Scientific Name: Polygonatum biflorum var. commutatum (J.A. & J.H. Schultes) Morong
Synonym: Polygonatum commutatum, Convallaria commutata, Polygonatum canaliculatum
Family: Liliaceae

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Polygonatum commutatum, USDA NRCS. 1995. Northeast wetland flora: Field office guide to plant species.

Recommended Temperature Zone:
sunset: 1-7,15-17
USDA: 3 to 8

Sun Exposure: Light shade to shade

Origin: Eastern North America, in moist woodlands

Growth Habits: Herbaceous perennial, 2 to 6 feet tall (60-180 cm), 18 to 24 inches spread (45-60 cm)

Watering Needs: Frequent water, moist air, tolerates wet soils

Propagation: Spreads by rhizomes, division of rhizome in spring, seeds

The rhizomes are edible, starchy.

Blooming Habits:
Greenish white, bell-shaped, 0.6 to 1.2 inches long (1.5-3 cm), usually borne in more than 2s below arching stems, in May and June. The fruits are blue-black berries ripening in the fall, up to 0.6 inch (1.5 cm) in diameter. The berries are slightly toxic.

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