Maianthemum stellatum
perennial

Starry Solomon's Seal

Maianthemum stellatum

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

18 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moist

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Berries may cause mild stomach upset if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Maianthemum stellatum, commonly known as starry false Solomon's seal, is a perennial herb with arching stems, elliptical leaves, and delicate clusters of star-shaped white flowers in spring followed by red berries. This species is appreciated for its attractive foliage and flowers that create a graceful ground cover, thriving in woodland and shaded garden settings.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides elegant arching stems with white flowers in early spring, adding structure and texture to shaded gardens.
Practical UsesHelps prevent soil erosion in moist shaded areas, and thrives in challenging conditions.
Ecological BenefitsSupports native pollinators and provides habitat for forest creatures.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck rhizomes 2 inches deep in moist, well-drained soil
  2. Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist
  3. Place in partial shade for optimal growth
  4. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
  5. Divide every 3-4 years in early spring for rejuvenation
  6. Mist foliage during dry spells to prevent stress

Pro Tip

Plant in shaded areas with rich, moist soil for best results

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
  • Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate temperature
  • Divide in early spring to promote healthy growth

Don't

  • Avoid dry, sunny locations ❌
  • Don’t allow soil to become waterlogged ❌
  • Refrain from over-fertilizing to prevent legginess

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
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 shady garden bed

Companion Plants

Fern Hosta Astilbe Trillium Foamflower

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Starry Solomon's Seal questions

What zones can Starry Solomon's Seal grow in?

Starry Solomon's Seal is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Starry Solomon's Seal deer resistant?

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

When does Starry Solomon's Seal bloom?

Starry Solomon's Seal typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Starry Solomon's Seal need full sun?

Starry Solomon's Seal does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Starry Solomon's Seal with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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