Also known as Solomon's Seal · 753 saves
Polygonatum
Polygonatum, the genus most gardeners know as solomon's seal. We track 27 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 24 most-saved Polygonatum varieties
See all 27 Polygonatum varieties →Search this genus →
2 species of Polygonatum
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Polygonatum in Sow
Save the Polygonatum you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Polygonatum
Whats common across all Polygonatum varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 27 most-grown of them.
The Polygonatum year
- DivideMarch, September and October100% of varieties
Divide crowded clumps every 3-5 years in early fall.
- MulchMarch85% of varieties
Refresh mulch layer to maintain soil moisture and coolness.
- Spring CleanupFebruary70% of varieties
Cut back old, dead stems to the ground before new shoots emerge.
- PlantMarch, September and October59% of varieties
Plant rhizomes in early spring or fall in rich, shady soil.
- Check for PestsApril and May33% of varieties
Watch for slugs and snails, which can damage new foliage.
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Prune dead stems in late winter
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Mulch annually to conserve moisture
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t expose to full sun which can scorch leaves
- Don’t let soil dry out completely
- Refrain from over-fertilizing
What goes wrong with Polygonatum
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Use insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Slugs | Holes in leaves, slime trails | Apply iron phosphate slug bait or handpick during evening |
| Root rot | Wilting and yellowing leaves | Ensure well-draining soil and avoid overwatering |
| Slugs and snails | Chewed leaves and stems | Use organic slug bait or hand-pick pests |
| Root rot | Wilting and browning leaves | Ensure well-drained soil and avoid overwatering |
| Leaf spot | Brown or black spots on leaves | Remove affected leaves and improve air circulation |
| Root Rot | Wilting, yellowing leaves, mushy roots | Improve drainage, reduce watering, treat with organic fungicide |
Making more Polygonatum
Division
- Dig up mature rhizomes in early spring or fall
- Cut into sections with at least one eye each
- Plant sections 2 inches deep in moist soil
- Water thoroughly after planting
- Allow 6 weeks for establishment
Seed
- Sow seeds in moist, well-drained soil in fall.
- Stratify seeds at 40°F (4°C) for 3 months.
- Keep soil moist and provide shade.
- Germination occurs in 4–6 weeks.
Polygonatum questions
How many types of Polygonatum are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 27 distinct Polygonatum varieties. The most popular — ranked by 753 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Polygonatum grow in?
Across its varieties, Polygonatum covers USDA Zones 4–9. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Polygonatum bloom?
Most Polygonatum varieties bloom in late spring, early spring, late spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Polygonatum 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.