False Solomon’s Seal (Smilacina racemosa)

False Solomon’s Seal Buds

False Solomon’s Seal Flowers

            False Solomon’s Seal is a member of the Lily Family.  It differs from Solomon’s Seal in that the tiny, creamy white, fragrant flowers form a cluster at the end of the curving stem rather than drooping beneath the stem.  The flowers have six sepals.  The leaves of the two plants look somewhat similar.  False Solomon’s Seal leaves are alternate along the stem, oval, parallel veined and pointed at the tip.  Petioles are short.  The plant can grow to be several feet tall.
            It is hardy up to Zone 3 and can grow on rocky slopes, roadsides, and clearings in part sun or shade.
            Speckled berries form at the end of the stalk.  In autumn they turn bright red. 

False Solomon’s Seal Berries in August

False Solomon’s Seal Berries in October

Seed Inside False Solomon’s Seal Berry