Solomons Seal – Polygonatum Multiflorum

The Polygonatum Multiflorum (Solomon’s Seal) is a plant that belongs to the Asparagaceae, commonly known as the asparagus or lily family. The family includes perennials, biennials and some annuals. Solomons Seal is one of the most popular and attractive of the perennial flowering plants. It performs well in conditions which other plants may struggle, thriving in both part to full shade. With its long, arched stems carrying small clusters of two to six creamy white flowers with distinct green tips, Solomons Seal is a prized ornamental choice. As the flowers fade, they give way to blue and black berries and the foliage turns a vibrant yellow during the cooler months.

How to Plant and Grow Solomons Seal

Solomons Seal is a relatively easy plant to grow, making it a great choice for beginner gardeners. There are some important considerations to make in order to ensure it thrives. When planting, it is important to give it well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter. A neutral pH is ideal, but the soil should not be too acidic or too alkaline.It should be in a spot that receives bright indirect light or partial shade, as the plant does not perform well in direct sunlight.

When it comes to water and humidity, Solomons Seal should be kept moist but not wet. It is best to water the plant once per week or even less frequently, as too much moisture can easily harm the plant. Humidity should be kept high for optimal growth. The plant also benefits from a light fertilization every three weeks during its growing season.

Meaning and Symbolism

The name Solomons Seal is said to be given to the plant due to its root system resembling the ancient Hebrew King Solomon’s seal. The six points on the root represent wisdom and are said to offer healing benefits. Additionally, this flower is also thought to symbolize protection against evil and a promise of success. The plant has been used in culture and art to convey spiritual enlightenment and protection.

History, Mythology, and Religious Significance

Solomons Seal has been an important part of human culture since ancient times. It has been used in traditional medicine, rituals and ceremonies in many cultures. Additionally, its appearance has been the muse of painters and poets through the centuries. In Native American culture, it was viewed as a symbol of connection between earth and the spiritual realm. It was commonly used in rituals and traditional medicine for spiritual protection, healing, and to induce visions in shamans.

In some Christian denominations, this flower is viewed as a symbol of peace. Its six petals, which resemble the shape of two interlocking triangles, were often used in church architecture and decorations as a symbol for abstaining from evil. In Jewish culture, Solomons Seal is viewed as a source of inner strength and is believed to provide protection.

Flower Varieties and Their Defining Characteristics

Solomons Seal comes in several varieties, with the most common being Polygonatum Multiflorum. Other varieties include: Polygonatum Biflorum Variegatum, Polygonatum Commutatum, Polygonatum Odoratum and Polygonatum X Hybrida. Each one of these varieties has its own characteristics, such as flower and/or foliage color, leaf arrangement, flower height and plant size.

Polygonatum Multiflorum has thin light green leaves and tall white and green flowers. This variety is very popular because it is easy to grow and has a very long flowering period from mid spring to early summer. Another popular variety is the Polygonatum Biflorum Variegatum, which is the smallest solomons seal variety. It has smaller, yellow variegated leaves and white flowers.

Polygonatum Commutatum has green-tinged leaves and pale green-white flowers. Polygonatum Odoratum has deep green leaves and white and yellow flowers with a sweet scent. Finally, Polygonatum X Hybrida is a hybrid variety with green and yellow leaves, and white and yellow flowers.

How to Pot and Repot Solomons Seal

Before potting, it is important that the soil is properly prepared. Solomons Seal prefers well drained and nutrient rich soil. If the soil is not well drained or too sandy, add organic matter such as peat moss or shredded bark. For best results, use a high quality potting soil, with a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5.

When potting, choose a pot that is 1-2 inches wider than the plant’s pot, as Solomons Seal have thick roots and will need some extra room to grow. Plant the Solomons Seal in a sunny location as they prefer bright light, but avoid direct sunlight. Give the plant a good amount of water and avoid over-watering. The plant should be fertilized once a month with a balanced fertilizer.

When repotting, it should be done every few years, as the roots can become too big for its pot and can cause stunted growth. When repotting, gently remove the roots from the pot and choose a pot 1-2 inches wider. Fill the new pot with high quality soil, add water and then place the Solomons Seal into the pot. Prune the roots if needed and then water well.

How to Prune

Pruning can help keep Solomons Seal looking neat and attractive and can encourage bushy growth. Deadheading, which involves removing spent flowers, should be done regularly to ensure continued blooms throughout the growing season. The stems carrying the flower clusters can become weak over time and may need to be pruned to maintain a bushy and healthy appearance.

When pruning, use clean and sharp garden shears and cut the stems just above the node. Prune the plant in the Spring before any new growth begins. Flowering stems produce fewer flowers if left on the plant for more than a year, so it is best to prune them back. Additionally, if the plant becomes too large for its pot, prune back some of the stems to keep it from becoming top-heavy and to allow new growth.

How to Propagate

Propagating Solomons Seal is done by division. The most efficient way is to look for the side shoots and then divide them carefully with a sharp spade. Each division should have at least two shoots and several roots. After division, place each division into its own pot, keeping them close together and cover with soil.

Water the pots regularly and they should start to show growth in a few weeks. When the weather warms up, move the new plants outside and they should transplant well. Once they have rooted, they can be divided again if needed.

Common Pests and Diseases

Solomons Seal is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. Some of the common problems may include slugs, aphids and mites. Slugs and aphids can be removed by hand and mites can be controlled with an appropriate insecticide. Additionally, watch for leaf spots or powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide.

Frequently Asked Questions About Polygonatum Multiflorum

Q: How long will Solomons Seal last?
A: Solomons Seal is a long-lived plant that can survive for several years with proper care. It should be divided every few years and protected from cold temperatures and excess moisture.

Q: How big do Solomons Seal plants get?
A: Solomons Seal plants can vary in size, but generally they reach a height of 2-3 feet and a width of 2 feet.

Q: What type of soil does Solomons Seal need?
A: Solomons Seal prefers well-drained and nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5.

Table Fact Sheet

Solomons Seal	Polygonatum Multiflorum
Family	Asparagaceae
Plant Type	Perennial
Mature Size	2-3 ft tall, 2 ft wide
Sun Exposure	Partial Shade/Indirect Light
Soil Type	Well-drained, with organic matter
Soil pH	6.5-7.5
Bloom Time	Late Spring to Early Summer
Flower Color	Creamy White with Green Tips
Hardiness Zones	4-9
Native Area	North America, Europe, and Parts of Asia