Polygonatum sibiricum

Elegant, statuesque and steeped in history, Polygonatum sibiricum, commonly known as Siberian Solomon's Seal, is a beautiful woodland perennial admired for its graceful arching stems and delicate, creamy-white, bell-shaped flowers.

Native across Siberia, northern China, Mongolia and Korea, this hardy species has been cultivated for centuries, not only for its ornamental beauty but also for its long history in traditional herbal medicine. In spring, each gently arching stem is lined with pairs of elegant pendant flowers suspended beneath fresh green leaves, creating a refined and natural woodland display. By late summer, the flowers are often followed by attractive blue-black berries, adding further seasonal interest.

Slightly more upright than the common Garden Solomon's Seal, Polygonatum sibiricum forms handsome clumps that slowly increase year after year. Its architectural stems bring movement and texture to shaded borders, woodland gardens and naturalistic planting schemes, while its fresh green foliage provides a calming backdrop for spring bulbs and woodland companions.

Perfect planted beneath deciduous trees or amongst Hostas, Ferns, Trilliums and Erythroniums, this long-lived perennial requires very little maintenance once established and becomes increasingly impressive with age.

An elegant and highly reliable woodland plant that will grace the garden for decades.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Polygonatum rhizomes in autumn or early spring while dormant. Plant as soon as possible after receipt for the best establishment.

Where to Plant:
Choose a position in partial shade or full shade with moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil. Ideal beneath deciduous trees, shrubs or in woodland borders where the soil remains cool throughout the growing season.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant rhizomes approximately 5–8 cm (2–3 inches) below the soil surface with the growing buds facing upwards.
• Spacing: Space plants about 30–45 cm (12–18 inches) apart.
• Soil Prep: Incorporate plenty of compost, leaf mould or well-rotted organic matter before planting to improve soil fertility and moisture retention.

Watering:
Water thoroughly after planting and keep the soil consistently moist during the first growing season. Once established, water during prolonged dry spells, especially in warm weather.

Aftercare Tips:

• Apply a mulch of compost or leaf mould each spring.
• Allow foliage and stems to die back naturally in autumn.
• Divide mature clumps every 5–6 years if required.

Top Tip:
Plant in drifts with Ferns, Hostas and spring-flowering woodland bulbs to create a natural woodland scene that becomes more beautiful every year.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:
May – June (depending on season and conditions)

Height:
24–36" (60–90cm) (approx.)

Position:
Partial shade to full shade

Hardy Perennial