Smooth Solomon's seal (Polygonatum biflorum)

Plant Type: This is a herbaceous plant, it is a perennial which can reach 152cm in height (60inches). Each plant consists of a single un-branched, arching stem.

Leaves: The leaves are alternate. Each leaf is entire.

Flowers: The flowers have 6 Regular Parts and are up to 2cm long (0.75 inches). They are greenish white. Blooms first appear in late spring and continue into early summer. The flowers hang below the leaves.

Fruit: A dark blue-black berry up to 1.5cm (.6") in diameter.

Habitat: Rich woods.
Range: Most of eastern U. S. except extreme north.

   
A new stem emerges from the root each year and the old stem scars on the root resemble the seals once used to seal letters with wax, hence the name. Since a single new stem grows every year the scars on the root can be counted to gauge the age of the plant.

Lore: The young shoots have been eaten much like asparagus. The root can be eaten, dried and ground into flour.

Photographic Location: Taylor Hollow State Natural Area.

Medical Uses: A poultice of fresh root was used by American settlers and Natives alike for all types of sores and skin injuries. A root decoction was used to treat excessive menstruation, lung problems and digestive upsets. The Cherokee's used it for skin eruptions and are said to have valued it as a cosmetic. Used especially to treat rashes from plants such as Poison Ivy. There is little science to support any of these uses.