perennial

Chollipo Solomon's Seal

Polygonatum odoratum 'Chollipo'

Same species

Species

6 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Consistently moist

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Many years

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

All parts, especially berries, are toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Polygonatum odoratum, known as Solomon's Seal, is a perennial herb with arching stems, paired elliptical leaves, and dangling, bell-shaped white flowers that hang in clusters along the stems. The 'Chollipo' cultivar is a vigorous selection noted for its arching stems with leaves that have wide, creamy-white margins, which are bolder than other variegated forms.

Bloom Period:

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

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesElegant arching stems and bell-shaped flowers add visual appeal in shaded gardens.
Practical UsesProvides ground cover and soil stabilization in shady areas.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators with early spring nectar.

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck rhizomes 2 inches deep in well-draining soil.
  2. Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist.
  3. Place in partial shade for optimal growth.
  4. Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  5. Divide every 3-4 years in early spring for propagation.
  6. Stake taller stems if necessary to prevent flopping.

Pro Tip

Plant in rich, well-drained soil with shade for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly, especially in dry periods 🌱
  • Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate temperature
  • Prune dead or damaged stems in early spring

Don't

  • Avoid excessive fertilizing which can promote disease ❌
  • Don’t expose to full sun, as it prefers shade
  • Don’t let soil dry out completely

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderDappled shade groundcoverFragrant shaded pathway

Companion Plants

Hosta Ferns Astilbe Heuchera Bleeding Heart

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Chollipo Solomon's Seal questions

What zones can Chollipo Solomon's Seal grow in?

Chollipo 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 Chollipo Solomon's Seal deer resistant?

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

When does Chollipo Solomon's Seal bloom?

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

Does Chollipo Solomon's Seal need full sun?

Chollipo Solomon's Seal does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Chollipo 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.