Solomon’s Seal | Features and Care

Polygonatum odoratum, commonly known as Solomon’s Seal, is a perennial plant in the family Asparagaceae, native to East Asia including Japan. With its gracefully arching stems, delicate bell-shaped white flowers, and orderly arranged leaves, it has been valued in both Japanese and Western gardens for its subtle beauty.

This article explores its botanical characteristics, cultural significance, historical background, and practical care tips.

Basic Information

• Scientific name: Polygonatum odoratum
• Family: Asparagaceae
• Origin: Japan, China, the Korean Peninsula, Eastern Russia
• Appearance: Slender, arching stems grow close to the ground, with alternating elliptical leaves. One or two white, tubular to bell-shaped flowers hang downward from each leaf axil.
• Blooming season: April to May

Cultural Significance Around the World

In Japan, Solomon’s Seal has long been appreciated as a wildflower and incorporated into traditional gardens. It gained popularity during the Edo period as a potted plant and bonsai specimen. Often used in tea gardens or roji, it plays a central role in recreating naturalistic, serene landscapes. It is also commonly planted to highlight the aesthetic of quietude and negative space in Japanese garden design.

In China and Korea, it has likewise been cultivated in shaded areas of traditional gardens, often placed alongside bamboo or stones to express harmony between people and nature.

In Europe, particularly from the 19th century onward, Solomon’s Seal became part of woodland-style plantings in English and German gardens. Frequently combined with ferns or hostas, it has found a permanent place in shade gardening due to its gentle form and adaptability.

Historical Background

In Japanese historical records, Solomon’s Seal is mentioned as early as the Heian period, though its association with gardens became prominent during the Edo period. At this time, wild plant appreciation flourished, and Solomon’s Seal was treasured for its ability to subtly enhance garden compositions. Especially in Kyoto temple gardens, it was used to complement moss and stepping stones, helping express the season’s presence.

In Europe, the plant was introduced into botanical literature during the 17th and 18th centuries, and later integrated into Linnaean taxonomy. The name “Solomon’s Seal” is said to derive from the scar-like rings at its stem nodes, resembling sealing wax. In Victorian garden culture, it became a staple of shaded areas, reflecting the era’s fascination with woodland flora.

Gardening Advice

Solomon’s Seal is relatively easy to care for and ideal for creating calm, naturalistic scenes in the garden. It grows best in partially shaded environments and harmonizes well with other shade-loving species. Key care points are as follows:

Light

Prefers partial shade or bright indirect light. Avoid strong, direct sunlight which may scorch the leaves.

Watering

Water when the soil surface becomes dry. Maintain moderate moisture levels, especially in summer. Avoid overwatering.

Soil

Best grown in humus-rich, well-drained, slightly moist soil. Incorporating leaf mold or compost enhances the growing medium.

Fertilizer

Apply a slow-release balanced fertilizer in early spring to support growth. Additional feeding is generally unnecessary.

Pruning and Maintenance

After flowering, remove withered stems or leaves. In autumn, the aboveground parts die back naturally and can be left until spring regrowth.

Wintering

Hardy in cold climates. Outdoor cultivation is possible even in frost-prone regions. For potted plants, move to a sheltered spot during freezing conditions.

Repotting and Division

Every few years, divide crowded clumps in early spring or autumn to maintain vigor.

Conclusion

Solomon’s Seal is a perennial plant appreciated for its graceful form and understated beauty. It has played an important role in the garden cultures of Japan, China, and Europe, particularly as a shade-loving plant in forest-like settings.

Its seasonal changes, ease of care, and compatibility with both Japanese and Western designs make it a versatile addition to many types of gardens. With its quiet presence, it enhances spaces where calm and subtle transitions are valued.