Asparagus Family – Asparagaceae
Actual flower size: 1/2 inch across
Star-flowered Solomon’s Seal is also called Starry Solomon’s Seal and Star-flowered False Solomon’s Seal. Former Latin name was Smilacina stellat
Plant Description: Star-flowered Solomon’s Seal is a perennial. The single stem is 1 to 2 feet long, arching, with 5 to 20 star-like flowers at the tip, each on its own stalk. The leaves alternate up the stem in 2 rows, with the stem bending at each node, zigzag fashion. The leaves are slightly clasping, up to 7 inches long, lance-shaped with a pointed tip, and heavily parallel-veined.
Flower Description: The 6 tepals are white, narrowly oblong, .25 inches long, flared out and longer than the 6 white stamens. The style is short.
Ecology: Star-flowered Solomon’s Seal grows in moist woods and along streams at middle to higher elevations. It is often abundant, forming a 2 foot high understory.
Note: Star-flowered Solomon’s Seal has been moved from the Lily Family to the Asparagus Family. See “APG Changes” page.
Star-flowered Solomon’s Seal Photo Gallery