Also known as False Solomon's Seal · 86 saves
Maianthemum
Maianthemum, the genus most gardeners know as false solomon's seal. We track 3 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 3 most-saved Maianthemum varieties
Track your Maianthemum in Sow
Save the Maianthemum you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Maianthemum
Whats common across all Maianthemum varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 3 most-grown of them.
The Maianthemum year
- MulchMarch100% of varieties
Apply a layer of leaf mold or compost in spring to retain moisture.
- DivideSeptember100% of varieties
Divide crowded clumps every 3-5 years in early spring or fall.
- Spring CleanupFebruary100% of varieties
Cut back old, dead stems to the ground before new growth emerges.
- PlantMarch, September and October67% of varieties
Plant or transplant rhizomes in early spring or fall.
Do
- Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate temperature
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 💧
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
- Divide in early spring or fall
- Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
Avoid
- Avoid waterlogging the roots ❌
- Do not expose to direct full sun
- Do not disturb dormant plants during winter
- Avoid dry, sunny locations ❌
What goes wrong with Maianthemum
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Spray with organic insecticidal soap |
| Slugs | Holes in leaves | Use organic slug bait or handpick pests |
| Root rot | Wilting and browning leaves | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
Making more Maianthemum
Division
- Dig up mature plants in early spring.
- Separate clumps with a sharp knife.
- Replant divisions immediately in prepared soil.
Seed
- Collect seeds after fruit ripens in late summer.
- Stratify seeds in moist sand for 3 months.
- Sow in prepared soil in early spring.
Maianthemum questions
How many types of Maianthemum are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 3 distinct Maianthemum varieties. The most popular — ranked by 86 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Maianthemum grow in?
Across its varieties, Maianthemum covers USDA Zones 4–8. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Maianthemum bloom?
Most Maianthemum varieties bloom in late spring, early spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Maianthemum should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.