Description

False Solomon seal is one of relatively few plants found in California that are also found throughout much of North America. Its range extends from Alaska, through all of Canada and much of the US. In California it grows in shady montane settings. In Santa Clara County one can observe nice stands of false Solomon seal in the hills around Stevens Creek Reservoir. Following summer dormancy arching fronds of lance-shaped emerge in an expanding patch. Around mid-spring - at least in Santa Clara County - the fronds are tipped with clusters of small white flowers. These are followed by red berries if conditions are right. Fruit-set is somewhat unreliable. It seems to depend on the availability of water. False Solomon seal seems to respond well to moisture, and can be invasive if watered regularly. Plant this unusual plant in a shady spot with soil of decent drainage.