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Solomon's Seal
Propagate by division about every three years or so. It's a rather slow grower so have patience, it's well worth your time. There are several species to choose from. I'm partial to the variegated, with it's creamy white edges (P. odoratum Variegatum). The P. commutatum (Great Solomon's Seal) has yellow flowers and grows to 6 feet. And let's not forget Fragrant Solomon's Seal with it's captivating fragrance. When first planted loosen the soil, add compost and keep moist on till established. This shade tolerant flower likes a lite, loose soil.If you like long arching stems, this is the plant for you.Other names include Saint Mary,s Seal and Lady's Seal.
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Solomon's Seal a relative of lily-of-the-valley, resembling the dainty fragrant bell shaped flowers. The long arching stems ranging from 3 to 4 feet is the main attraction. The leaves start half way up the stem and continue to the end. They are a rich deep green to bluish green and grow to 7 inches long.The flowers are white with a yellow to green tips, which dangle down under the foliage. In Autumn the leaves turn a bright yellow and it bears blue-black berries.
While this wonderful flower for shade gardening will grow in just about any soil, even dry soil, it will do much better in a good composted, humus rich well drained soil. Add leaf mold before planting and keep on the moist side.
