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Description
Polygonatum Odoratum, commonly known as the Sweet-Smelling Solomon’s Seal, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asparagaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia, and it grows in moist woodlands, shaded slopes, and hedgerows. This plant is known for its sweet fragrance, which is especially strong during the night.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Polygonatum |
Appearance
The Sweet-Smelling Solomon’s Seal has arching stems that can grow up to 60 cm tall. The stems are green and have alternate leaves that are ovate and pointed. The leaves can grow up to 12 cm long and 8 cm wide. The plant produces small, bell-shaped flowers that are white or greenish-white and hang from the stem in pairs. The flowers bloom from May to June and are followed by blue-black berries that ripen in autumn.
Care Guide
The Sweet-Smelling Solomon’s Seal prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types but prefers slightly acidic soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season, to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Sweet-Smelling Solomon’s Seal is generally not affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to slug and snail damage. To prevent damage, use slug and snail bait or surround the plant with copper strips.
Habitat
The Sweet-Smelling Solomon’s Seal is native to Europe and Asia and can be found in moist woodlands, shaded slopes, and hedgerows. It prefers to grow in partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Sweet-Smelling Solomon’s Seal a shade-loving plant?
A: Yes, it prefers to grow in partial to full shade.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize the plant?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can the Sweet-Smelling Solomon’s Seal grow in dry soil?
A: No, it prefers moist, well-drained soil.
Q: Does the plant produce seeds?
A: Yes, the plant produces blue-black berries that ripen in autumn.
Related Plants
- Polygonatum Biflorum
- Polygonatum Cirrhifolium
- Polygonatum Falcatum
- Polygonatum Multiflorum
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/polygonatum-odoratum-sweet-solomons-seal
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/36590/Polygonatum-odoratum/Details
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/solomons-seal/sweet-solomons-seal-plant.htm
