Species

Polygonatum odoratumFragrant Solomon's Seal

6 other cultivars

perennial

Koryu Solomon's Seal

Polygonatum odoratum 'Koryu'

The Story

Plant Bio

Polygonatum odoratum, commonly known as Solomon's Seal, is a perennial herbaceous plant with arching stems and whorled, lance-shaped leaves. It produces elegant, bell-shaped white flowers that hang beneath the foliage in spring.

The 'Koryu' cultivar, meaning 'old dragon' in Japanese, is distinguished by its unique, deeply ridged and textured green leaves, giving it a dramatic, architectural quality.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds elegant, arching stems with fragrant flowers, perfect for shaded garden corners.

Helps soil retention in shaded areas and prevents erosion.

Provides habitat and nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies.

SpeciesPolygonatum odoratumFragrant Solomon's Seal

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moist

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Many years

Native To

Asia and Europe

Toxicity

All parts, especially berries, are toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late spring – Late fall

In flower about 7 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck rhizomes 2 inches deep in well-draining soil
Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist
Place in partial shade for optimal growth
Mulch around the plant to retain moisture
Divide every 3–4 years in early spring for propagation
Tuck in compost annually for nutrients

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade with rich, moist soil for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Prune dead stems in late winter

Don't

Avoid dry, sunny locations ❌
Don’t allow soil to dry out completely
Refrain from over-fertilizing

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland garden borderFragrant pathway edgeSilver-foiliaged backdrop

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Astilbes LigulariaHeucheras

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Koryu Solomon's Seal questions

What zones can Koryu Solomon's Seal grow in?

Koryu 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 Koryu Solomon's Seal deer resistant?

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

When does Koryu Solomon's Seal bloom?

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

Does Koryu Solomon's Seal need full sun?

Koryu Solomon's Seal does best in part shade.