Variegated Solomon’s seal requires a rich, woodsy soil; though it tolerates dryness, it grows best in soil that stays relatively moist, but never waterlogged. Incorporate lots of leaf compost or other organic matter before planting. After planting, keep the soil mulched to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Water plantings during dry spells. To start new plants, dig up portions of the plants with a sharp spade in fall, after the foliage has been touched by frost. Alternatively, mark the location of plants in fall and transplant in spring before they break dormancy and poke above the ground.
The showy leaves of variegated Solomon’s seal are bright green, edged in white. This coloration makes a shady spot positively sparkle all season long. Like other Solomon’s seals, this variety has graceful, arching, unbranched stems; pairs of 1-inch white flowers hang down from the axils of the leaves. The flowers have a fragrance that is particularly delightful on warm, calm evenings.
ZONES: 4–9
BLOOM TIME: Spring and early summer
LIGHT: Part shade
HEIGHT: 18–24 inches
INTEREST: Arching stems with fragrant white flowers and attractive whitevariegated foliage
This plant is attractive and useful for adding elegance to shady locales—especially when planted amid a ground cover such as hosta, pachysandra, or periwinkle. Its elegant, arching stems provide a very pleasing contrast to the lower-growing plants. Touches of white on the leaves provide the added dimension of color contrast in a swath of shady greens. Plant some near a path so that its sweet fragrance can be readily enjoyed.