Polygonatum

A collection by Dr. Peter Zale of this recently described evergreen species. A gorgeous plant with attractive richly red new shoots and handsome foliage on arching stems. Small yellowish flowers adorn the leaf axils and reddish fruit follows. We haven't trialed this outside because our winters make us chicken out nearly every time. Let's go frost-free for now and we'll find out more later. Epiphytic, so a crumbly potting mix.

More is more says Feather Boa, give into your sinful excesses! Species purists be damned we will flaunt our genetic freaks! Just like the fashion item for which it's named this Solomon's Seal cares not for demure two-leafed-ness, nor does it desire orderly whorls instead it produces a flurry of leaves splayed across the top of the stems that look like the rippling feathers of a fantastical bird. Very rare and very choice selection of this common species. 

Very rare Solomon's Seal from NW India which has proven to be evergreen at least in our cool greenhouse. We've not tested it outside but suspect it will be evergreen in mild winters at least. Creamy bells with darker mottling hang beneath the glossy leaves. Loose moist organic soil.

We found this as a raggedy half-dormant plant in the midst of snow on Jinfoshan in 2010. It has taken us a long time since to both offer it and to appreciate its full-green growing season appearance. Staying quite small, only about 8 inches, and with adorably rounded leaves this isn't going to wow anybody but is an absolutely perfect negative space or filler plant carrying on the solomon's seal tradition of playing nice with everything while not taking up quite so much vertical room as the more traditional offerings.

Early Form  This jumpstarts the Solomon Seal season by being among the very first to start growing in spring.  Dense clumps of gracefully thin stems with an instinctual air of culture to the presentation of foliage and white flowers – not unlike the plantsman, educator, author, presenter, tour guide – ok, we’ll stop with the resume of the tasteful Cole Burrell who shared this with us.