perennial

Hairy Solomon's Seal

The Story

Plant Bio

Polygonatum hirtum, commonly known as Hairy Solomon's Seal, is a perennial deciduous plant featuring arching stems with lance-shaped, hairy leaves and elegant, bell-shaped cream to yellow flowers that hang beneath the foliage.

This species is distinguished by its densely hairy stems and leaves, which add texture and interest; it also produces fragrant flowers that attract pollinators in shaded woodland gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds early spring interest with elegant arching stems and fragrant flowers; lush foliage provides texture.

Prefers shaded, moist areas, making it ideal for woodland gardens and shaded borders.

Provides habitat for pollinators and beneficial insects in shaded garden environments.

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

Prefers humid environments

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe and Asia

Toxicity

Berries are poisonous if ingested

Bloom period

Late spring – Mid-spring

In flower about 12 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck rhizomes 2-3 inches deep into well-drained soil
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
Plant in partial shade or dappled sunlight
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Water regularly during dry spells, especially in summer
Divide every 3-4 years in early spring or late fall

Pro Tip

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

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Apply mulch to conserve moisture
Divide in early spring or fall

Don't

Avoid exposing to excessive direct sunlight ❌
Do not allow soil to dry out completely
Overcrowd plants to prevent airflow issues

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderUnderstory beneath treesMoist shade garden

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Astilbes Trilliums

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hairy Solomon's Seal questions

What zones can Hairy Solomon's Seal grow in?

Hairy 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 Hairy Solomon's Seal deer resistant?

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

When does Hairy Solomon's Seal bloom?

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

Does Hairy Solomon's Seal need full sun?

Hairy Solomon's Seal does best in part shade.