Maianthemum (Smilacena) racemosum (false Solomon's seal)

False Solomon's seal, also known as feathery false lily of the valley, is an attractive herbaceous perennial with an upright arching form and creamy white, terminally borne billow flowers produced in spring. Th flowers are followed by red berries that persist into fall. It is easily grown in average, well-drained soils in part shade. Prefers rich, loose, moist, humusy, and slightly acidic soils. A clump-forming perennial, it typically grows 2–3' tall and slowly spreads by thick rhizomes, often forming large colonies. Roots do not like to be disturbed, particularly before plant becomes established. 

False Solomon's seal is widespread, known in every U.S. state except Hawaii. It is a woodland plant that is most robust and profuse in partial shade and deep, moist, soft soils. Birds and small mammals eat the berries. The flowers are pollinated by small bees, flies, and beetles. Deer sometimes browse leaves. 

BONAP Native Range Map (bright green indicates county native, dark green indicates state native)  

Photo by Kathy Thornton

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