As with other native woodland plants, false Solomon’s seal is happiest in light shade and slightly acidic soil that’s rich in organic matter. However, it isn’t too fussy as long as the soil remains somewhat moist (not wet) during the growing season. It tolerates competition from surface tree roots better than many shade plants. The best time to divide and transplant is when the plants go dormant in late summer. New plants can also be produced from seeds collected from the ripe fruits in late summer.
False Solomon’s seal is native to North America and has found its way into many woodland gardens across the country. In spring and early summer, each 2- to 3-foot stem is tipped with a plumelike cluster of fragrant, starlike creamy white flowers. These are followed by green berries that ripen to a speckled pinkish red. The unbranched stems arch gracefully and have wide, bright green leaves arrayed along the sides. The foliage remains ornamental all summer long. Plants spread slowly to produce handsome groups; it must know it looks its best in large patches.
ZONES: 3–9
BLOOM TIME: Spring to early summer
LIGHT: Part shade
HEIGHT: 24–36 inches
INTEREST: Elegant, arching stems with bright green foliage and fragrant, creamy white flowers at the tips
False Solomon’s seal blends well with hosta, rodgersia, globeflower, and native wildflowers such as ladybells. Use it to add a graceful note to a massed planting of low ground covers, or in groups to replace lawn around tree trunks. To enjoy its sweet fragrance, plant near an often-used path.