False Solomon’s Seal (Maianthemum racemosum)

Hardy, herbaceous, North American wildflower
Description: Tiny, fragrant, creamy white flowers at the ends of the stems in showy, terminal, spirea-like racemes in spring, followed by greenish, fleshy berries that turn ruby red in summer through fall; gracefully arching foliage
Habit: Grows 2’ to 3’ tall and spreads to 2’
Culture: Prefers part sun and humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil
Hardiness: Cold hardy to USDA Zone 3
Origin: North America

This handsome, clump-forming perennial member of the Asparagus family is widespread in rich forests throughout North America. Formerly known as Smilacena racemosa, it was introduced to European gardens by 1640 as “False Spikenard.” Other common names include Treacleberry, Feathery False Lily-of-the-Valley, and Solomon’s Plume. The unbranched, somewhat zigzag stems arise from large underground rhizomes and the large, shallowly furrowed leaves, which resemble true Solomon’s Seal, spread horizontally in two rows. This hardy species has no serious insect or disease problems and is best massed in naturalized plantings or woodland gardens.

Arrives in a 4" pot.