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Solomon's Seal, False

Herbaceous Perennial Flower, Spring-Flowering Bulb, Wildflower

Also known as False Spikenard
Smilacina racemosa
Liliaceae Family
Synonym: Maianthemum racemosum

This tall native bears oval shaped leaves on slightly arching stems topped by dense pyramidal clusters of fragrant creamy white blooms. Perfect for naturalizing in moist areas in partial to full shade. Bears attractive berries and golden foliage in fall.

	Site and Plant Characteristics
	Growing Information

Site Characteristics

Sunlight:

part shade
full shade

Soil conditions:

requires acid soil
requires well-drained soil
tolerates damp soil

Prefers rich, acidic, moist but well-drained soil.

Hardiness zones:

4 to 9

Possibly hardy in Zone 3. Does not perform well as an ornamental in Zones warmer than Zone 7.

Plant Traits

Lifecycle: perennial

Ease-of-care: easy

Height: 2 to 3 feet

Spread: 1 to 2 feet

Bloom time:

mid-spring
late spring

Flower color: white

Foliage color: medium green

Foliage texture: medium

Shape: upright

Stems are upright and slightly arching

Special Considerations

Special characteristics:

non-aggressive
non-invasive
native to North America - Native to woodland edges from Quebec to Arizona.
fragrant - Blooms have a pleasant fragrance.
bears ornamental fruit - Green or red berries.

Special uses:

wildflowers
naturalistic garden

Growing Information

How to plant:

Propagate by division or separation - Divide the plants in the spring.

Maintenance and care:

Keep soil moist. Do not disturb roots for at least three years before dividing.
More growing information: How to Grow Perennials

More growing information: How to Grow Bulbs