perennial

Chinbu Solomon's Seal

Polygonatum inflatum 'Chinbu'

The Story

Plant Bio

Polygonatum inflatum, known as Chinbu, is a perennial herbaceous plant with arching stems and pairs of oval, green leaves. It produces elegant, bell-shaped, cream to pale yellow flowers that hang in clusters along the stems.

This cultivar is distinguished by its particularly showy, pendulous flowers and its adaptability to shaded woodland environments, making it a popular choice for shaded garden borders.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds elegant arching stems and fragrant flowers, thriving in shaded gardens.

Provides ground cover in low-light areas, helping retain soil moisture.

Supports shade-loving pollinators and offers shelter for beneficial insects.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moist

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

Berries are mildly toxic if ingested.

Bloom period

Late spring

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck rhizomes 2 inches deep in rich, well-drained soil.
Mist cuttings in early spring for propagation.
Plant in a shaded area with moist soil.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide in early spring every 3–4 years for rejuvenation.

Pro Tip

Ensure shade and consistent moisture for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature
Divide every few years to maintain vigor

Don't

Avoid overexposure to direct sunlight ❌
Don't let soil dry out completely
Refrain from heavy fertilizing which can cause legginess

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderMoist shade gardenOrnamental under trees

Companion Plants

ferns hostas AstilbeJapanese forest grass solomon's seal

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Chinbu Solomon's Seal questions

What zones can Chinbu Solomon's Seal grow in?

Chinbu Solomon's Seal is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Chinbu Solomon's Seal deer resistant?

Yes — Chinbu Solomon's Seal is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Chinbu Solomon's Seal bloom?

Chinbu Solomon's Seal typically blooms in late spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Chinbu Solomon's Seal need full sun?

Chinbu Solomon's Seal does best in part shade.