Polygonatum odoratum Seeds | Fragrant Solomon Seal
LATIN NAME: Polygonatum odoratum
COMMON NAME: Fragrant Solomon Seal
Plant Profile
Polygonatum odoratum, commonly known as Fragrant Solomon Seal, is a species in the asparagus family with a long record in gardens. The fragrant Solomon seal arches graceful, curving stems with oval, green leaves arranged in two neat rows and small, white, bell-shaped flowers that hang along stem undersides through late spring, blue-black berries following. The whole plant carries the elegant, arching habit, and it moves gently in the breeze. It likes shade or part shade, and moist, leafy soil. Its appeal to pollinating insects adds a second, ecological layer to its ornamental one. In combination, these characteristics make a persuasive case for growing it.
Science & Biotechnology
As part of the asparagus family, Polygonatum odoratum contributes to research on plant classification and adaptation, while nurseries and gardeners continue to trial it for cultivation. In asparagus family, polygonatums have a long, quiet record in studies of woodland perennials, and fragrant species appears in research on root chemistry and shaded growth. Because it has been grown for so long, its garden habits are thoroughly documented.
Uses & Benefits
Fragrant Solomon Seal brings genuine presence to the garden and earns its keep across the growing season. In shaded garden, the fragrant Solomon seal arches bells over late spring. White bells hang along graceful stems, rhizomes have served traditional preparations for generations, berries feed birds, and clumps spread calmly in woodland soil. It grows well in moist, leafy, shaded ground. It establishes readily and then requires nothing out of the ordinary.
Solomon’s seal rhizome, Huang Jing and Yu Zhu, is a treasured Chinese yin tonic for energy, dryness and graceful aging, its polysaccharides studied for metabolic support; it is also a beautiful shade-garden archer.
Growing from Seed
Fragrant Solomon Seal grows readily from seed. A simple routine works well: sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly in a loose, well-drained seed compost, maintain even moisture, and provide partial shade. Pot the young plants on as they grow, harden them off gradually, and plant them into their final positions when sturdy.
Our Take
Fragrant Solomon Seal repays a little patience at sowing time with plenty of garden presence later.
Related Reading
If Fragrant Solomon Seal appeals to you, these related plants are worth a look: