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Description
Polygonatum Odoratum Variegatum, also known as Solomon’s Seal, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asparagaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value. The plant can grow up to 60 cm in height and has arching stems that bear pairs of leaves. The leaves are ovate and have a glossy texture. The flowers are small and white, and they bloom in spring or early summer. The plant produces blue-black berries in the fall that are poisonous if ingested.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Polygonatum |
Appearance
Polygonatum Odoratum Variegatum has striking variegated leaves that are green with white edges. The plant has a clump-forming habit and can spread up to 30 cm. The stems are slightly zigzagged and bear pairs of leaves that are up to 10 cm long. The flowers are bell-shaped, white, and hang from the undersides of the stems. They are followed by blue-black berries that are round and about 1 cm in diameter.
Care Guide
Polygonatum Odoratum Variegatum is a low maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water it regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant grows best in rich and fertile soil that is slightly acidic to neutral pH.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial to full shade and can suffer from leaf scorch if exposed to too much sun.
- Hardiness Zones: Polygonatum Odoratum Variegatum is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Polygonatum Odoratum Variegatum is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it may be affected by aphids, slugs, and snails. The plant may also suffer from fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent these problems, keep the plant healthy by providing good cultural conditions and removing any infected plant parts.
Habitat
Polygonatum Odoratum Variegatum is native to Europe and Asia and can be found in woodland areas and along stream banks. It prefers moist and cool environments and can grow in a wide range of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Polygonatum Odoratum Variegatum toxic?
A: Yes, the berries of the plant are poisonous if ingested.
Q: Can Polygonatum Odoratum Variegatum grow in full sun?
A: The plant prefers partial to full shade and can suffer from leaf scorch if exposed to too much sun.
Q: How often should I water Polygonatum Odoratum Variegatum?
A: The plant prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water it regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Polygonatum Odoratum Variegatum?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Related Plants
- Polygonatum Multiflorum
- Polygonatum Biflorum
- Polygonatum Cirrhifolium
- Polygonatum Humile
References
- “Polygonatum odoratum variegatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 May 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c293.
- “Polygonatum odoratum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 20 May 2021. www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/48778/Polygonatum-odoratum/Details.
- “Polygonatum odoratum variegatum.” Plant Finder. Accessed 20 May 2021. www.plantfinder.com/plants/polygonatum-odoratum-variegatum-14213.
