Plant Details

Polygonatum multiflorum, Polygonatum spp.

Solomon’s seals

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Explore the size, hardiness, soil, light, edible uses and harvest period of Polygonatum multiflorum, Polygonatum spp..

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Common names

4 names · 3 languages
EnglishYour language
  • Solomon’s seals
Other languages (2)
Dutch
  • Gewone salomonszegel
  • Veelbloemige salomonszegel
French
  • Sceau de Salomon
Sources & name notes

Names recorded in our plant catalogue, grouped by language. Usage can vary by region.

General information

Scientific name: Polygonatum multiflorum, Polygonatum spp.
Botanical family: Asparagaceae

Kew's family placement for the genus Polygonatum (WCVP v16).

Sources [1]
Also known as: Solomon’s seals

Plant characteristics

Layer: Herbaceous
Catalogue size class: Small
Height: 1.20 m
Spread: 0.30 m
Growth rate: None
Foliage: None

Growing conditions

USDA hardiness: 4-8
Soil moisture:
Well-drained, Moist
Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
pH:
Acidic Neutral Alkaline
Light:
Shade, Partial shade

Uses

Edible parts:
Leaves, Root
Edibility rating:
(2)
Medicinal rating:
(3)
Functions:
Cosmetic use, Ground cover

Description

Young sprouts can be cooked and used as an alternative to asparagus. They are an excellent plant-based source and are popular in Turkey. The root of this plant can also be cooked and has a starchy structure. It is important to soak the root in water before use to remove any bitter substances. Typically, the roots are only eaten in emergency situations. Native Americans in North America sometimes ground the roots into powder and then incorporated it into bread.

Harvest

Harvest starts: 01/09
Harvest ends: 30/11

Sources and references

References for the information marked with source numbers on this page.

Sources checked
  1. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew World Checklist of Vascular Plants, version 16, extracted 4 June 2026
    Supports: Botanical family
    Relevant sections
    • Botanical family: WCVP v16, wcvp_names.csv row 1166513; name ID 285729; Polygonatum Mill.. Family column.

    Source checked on .

    Source data licence: CC BY 3.0.