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False Solomon's Seal

Maianthemum stellatum

perennial herb View on Calscape

Care

Sun

part shade

Water

moderate

Soil

Fast; Prefers rich, loose, but well-drained soils with lots of humus.

Size

2–2ft tall , 1–2ft wide

Bloom

Mar-May

Foliage

Deciduous

Deer

Resistant

Container

Friendly

Edible

Berries eaten raw or cooked; traditional Indigenous food

Native Range

Moist meadows and woodlands throughout the Sierra Nevada, mountains, and north coastal regions from Kern County northward, 2000-8000 ft elevation, extending to Oregon and Washington.

Care Guide

Planting

Plant False Solomon's Seal in deep shade or partial shade - this is a woodland plant that won't thrive in sun. Choose a spot with rich, loose, well-drained soil amended with plenty of humus; if your garden soil is heavy clay, work in compost before planting. Plant in fall or early spring, spacing plants about 12-18 inches apart to account for their mature size of 2 feet tall.

After Planting

Water moderately during the first growing season, then taper back to once weekly or less during summer once established. This is a deciduous plant, so expect it to die back in winter - this is normal and not a sign of failure. The #1 mistake is overwatering; make sure soil drains fast and never stays soggy, or the roots will rot. After the first year, this easy-care perennial essentially takes care of itself and will reward you with delicate spring flowers, colorful berries in fall, and deer-resistant foliage year-round.

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