Solomon's Seal Polygonatum odoratum 'Red Stem'
ABOUT
Polygonatum odoratum 'Red Stem', commonly known as the Red Stem Solomon's Seal, is a perennial plant with a striking appearance. This plant is characterized by its arching stems, which are a notable reddish-purple color, differentiating it from the more common green-stemmed varieties. Along these colorful stems, you will find alternating, oval-shaped leaves that are a vibrant green. These leaves possess a smooth texture and a somewhat glossy finish that elegantly catches the light. In addition to its foliage, Red Stem Solomon's Seal produces small, tubular flowers that hang delicately in pairs or singularly beneath the leaves. These flowers are usually white or a pale cream color and are often tipped with green. After the flowering season, which typically occurs in spring, the plant produces small, round berries. These berries start off green but gradually turn to a dark navy or black as they mature. The contrasting colors of the reddish stems, green leaves, and white to cream flowers create an appealing and ornamental display, making Red Stem Solomon's Seal a popular choice for shaded garden areas or woodland settings. Its elegance and subtle charm make it a valued addition to any plant collection or landscape design where a touch of natural beauty is desired.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asparagaceae.
Synonyms
Variegated Solomon's Seal, Fragrant Solomon's Seal, Striped Solomon's Seal, Scented Solomon's Seal.
Common names
Convallaria odorata, Polygonatum officinale var. thunbergii, Polygonatum officinale var. pluriflorum, Polygonatum officinale var. maximowiczii, Polygonatum odoratum var. pluriflorum, Polygonatum odoratum var. thunbergii.
ToxicityTo humans
Solomon's Seal is generally not considered highly toxic to humans when touched or ingested in small quantities, but may cause mild irritation or an allergic reaction in some individuals. If ingested, parts of the plant can potentially cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. It is important to seek medical attention if a significant quantity is consumed or if symptoms are severe.
To pets
Solomon's Seal is not typically regarded as a highly poisonous plant to pets, but it still may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested. Symptoms in pets might include vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling. Caution should be exercised to prevent pets from ingesting the plant, and a veterinarian should be consulted if a pet consumes a large amount or shows signs of distress.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-3 feet (30-90 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Polygonatum odoratum 'Red Stem', also known as Solomon's Seal, has visually appealing features including arching stems, greenish-white flowers, and striking red stems that add elegance to shade gardens.
- Shade Tolerance: Solomon's Seal thrives in shady areas where many other plants struggle, making it a great addition to woodland settings or shaded borders.
- Easy Maintenance: This plant is known for being low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established in the appropriate environment.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, Solomon's Seal can tolerate periods of drought, making it suitable for gardens in drier climates or for gardeners seeking water-wise plants.
- Seasonal Interest: Solomon's Seal offers seasonal interest with its spring flowers, summer foliage, and bluish-black berries in the fall, which can also attract wildlife.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Polygonatum odoratum 'Variegatum' may possess properties that help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Antioxidant: It is thought to contain compounds with antioxidant effects that protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Immunomodulatory: There may be elements within the plant that can modulate the immune system, enhancing its function.
- Tonic: Traditionally used as a health tonic, it possibly contributes to overall wellbeing and vitality.
- Antitumor: Some research suggests that extracts from this plant could have antitumor properties.
- Antidiabetic: The plant might have the potential to help regulate blood sugar levels, beneficial for diabetic conditions.
- Gastroprotective: It may offer protection against certain types of ulcers and promote gastrointestinal health.
- Neuroprotective: There are indications that the plant could have protective effects on the nervous system.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Floral Arrangements: The Red Stem Solomon's Seal has arching stems and dangling flowers that add elegance and height to cut flower arrangements.
- Naturalizing Shade Gardens: Due to its hardiness and tendency to spread, this plant is excellent for filling in and naturalizing shady garden areas.
- Support for Beneficial Insects: The flowers provide nectar for early spring pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
- Erosion Control: The root systems help in stabilizing soil and preventing erosion in shaded slopes or woodland gardens.
- Culinary Uses: Young shoots of the Red Stem Solomon's Seal are edible when cooked and can be used in a similar fashion to asparagus.
- Photography Enthusiasts: The plant, with its unique red stems and white flowers, provides an attractive subject for photographers, especially in woodland settings.
- Habitat Creation: Forms part of a shaded understory which can provide habitat for small animals and ground-nesting birds.
- Education and Research: It can be used in educational settings to teach about native plants and woodland ecosystems.
- Winter Interest: In some climates, the dried seed heads and spent foliage provide textual interest in the winter garden.
- Bonsai Specimen: With careful pruning, the Red Stem Solomon's Seal can be grown as a bonsai, offering a unique display for enthusiasts.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiSolomon's seal is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilitySolomon's seal is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity and Good Health: The Polygonatum odoratum, commonly known as Solomon's Seal, is often associated with longevity and good health due to its medicinal properties that have been recognized in traditional medicine for centuries.
- Protection: Historically, Solomon's Seal was used as a protective charm, believed to ward off negative energies and provide a shield from evil.
- Wisdom and Knowledge: The name "Solomon's Seal" is said to be linked to King Solomon of the Bible, who was famed for his wisdom. Thus, the plant can symbolize a quest for knowledge and the wisdom to use it properly.
- Healing: Given its use in herbal remedies for various ailments, Solomon's Seal symbolically represents healing and the restoration of balance.
WaterSolomon's Seal prefers evenly moist soil, especially during the spring and summer when it's actively growing. You should water this plant once a week, providing about 1 inch of water, which equates to approximately 0.6 gallons for an average-sized plant. During the hotter months or in especially dry conditions, you may need to water it more frequently to maintain consistent soil moisture without waterlogging. Reduce watering in the fall as the plant prepares for dormancy and cease watering in the winter when the plant is dormant.
LightSolomon's Seal thrives in partial to full shade, making it an excellent choice for shaded underplanting in woodland gardens or north-facing locations. It can tolerate some morning sun but should be protected from harsh afternoon sunlight to prevent scorching of the leaves. The ideal spot for Solomon's Seal is one where it receives filtered light or is shaded by taller plants or structures.
TemperatureSolomon's Seal ideally grows in temperatures between 50°F and 75°F but can tolerate short periods of temperatures as low as 30°F and as high as 85°F. It is resilient in cooler conditions and can survive winter cold, typically in USDA zones 3 through 8. Avoid exposing it to prolonged temperatures outside this range to prevent damage to the plant.
PruningPrune Solomon's Seal to remove spent flowers and yellowing foliage, which generally improves plant appearance and health. Pruning is often done in late fall or early winter after the plant has gone dormant. Cutting back the stems to the ground helps encourage fresh growth in the spring. It may need minimal pruning unless to control size or remove damaged parts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSolomon's Seal prefers moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH of 5.5 to 7. A mix of loamy soil, compost, and leaf mold, or peat moss is ideal for the best growth and health of the plant.
RepottingSolomon's Seal usually doesn't need frequent repotting and can be done every 3-4 years or when it has outgrown its current pot, to refresh the soil and give roots more space.
Humidity & MistingSolomon's Seal thrives in average to high humidity levels, ideally between 40% to 60%, as it simulates its natural woodland habitat.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil consistently moist.
Outdoor
Plant in shade to partial sun, in moist, rich soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleThe Solomon's Seal 'Red Stem' begins its life cycle as a rhizome, an underground stem that is capable of producing the root system and shoots. In spring, shoots emerge from the rhizomes, giving rise to arching stems with alternating leaves and the characteristic reddish coloring on the stems. As the plant matures, small, bell-shaped white flowers with a green or purple tinge appear, usually in pairs along the stem beneath the leaves. After pollination, which is often aided by bees and other insects, the flowers develop into small blue-black berries by late summer to early fall. These berries are a food source for birds, which can help in seed dispersal. The plant dies back to the ground in the winter, with the rhizome surviving underground where it enters a period of dormancy before regenerating the next spring to restart the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
The variegated Solomon's seal, known as Polygonatum odoratum 'Red Stem', can be propagated through division, which is the most popular method. This is best done in the early spring before the growing season begins or in the fall after the plant has gone dormant. To propagate using division, carefully dig up the plant with a sharp shovel, making sure to maintain a generous amount of soil around the roots. Gently tease apart the rhizomes to create new plant sections, each with at least one or two buds. Replant the divisions immediately at the same soil depth they were previously growing, spacing them about 12 inches (30 centimeters) apart to ensure adequate room for growth. Water the new plantings thoroughly to help establish them. This straightforward approach is effective because Solomon's seal naturally spreads through rhizomatous growth, making division a seamless process that aligns with the plant's growth habits.
