Polygonatum odoratum ‘Variegatum’ grows 18 to 24 inches tall and will spread by rhizomes to form colonies. The oval shaped leaves are carried on upright, arching and unbranched stems. The variegated leaves are a light green with white tips and margins. Leaves turn an attractive yellow in the autumn. Pairs of small, bell-shaped white flowers with green tips are borne on short pedicels from the leaf axils underneath the arching stems. The flowers are present in late spring and are sweetly fragrant. Bluish-black berries are sometimes present in the autumn.
Variegated Solomon’s seal is a classic beauty for the shady woodland garden or the part-shade to full shade border. It is a great companion plant to other shade lovers including hostas, ferns and astilbes. The sweetly fragrant flowers will enhance that walk along a pathway on a spring morning. Flower arrangers will find the variegated foliage to be an attribute for spring floral arrangements. And finally, this all season perennial offers yellow fall foliage color.
Light
Variegated Solomon’s seal performs well in part to full shade conditions.
Soil
Variegated Solomon’s seal prefers moist, well-drained soil.
Uses
This perennial offers vivid highlights in shaded areas of borders, woodland gardens or naturalized areas. The variegated foliage is attractive in flower arrangements.
Unique Qualities
Polygonatum odoratum ‘Variegatum’ has arching stems, which carry pairs of small, bell-shaped white flowers in mid to late spring. Variegated ovate leaves are soft green with white tips and margins. Fall leaf color is yellow.
Maintenance
There are no serious insect or disease problems with variegated Solomon’s seal. Plants may be divided in the spring or fall. The white rhizomes should be planted just below the soil surface. Polygonatum odoratum ‘Variegatum’ is a very easy perennial to grow and will enhance any shade area.
Hardiness
USDA Zones 3 to 8.
Source: Perennial Plant Association
Photo by Steven Still/Perennial Plant Association
