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Herbaceous Perennial

Maianthemum japonicum

Japanese false Solomon's seal

A herbaceous perennial with a creeping, rhizomatous rootstock and hairy, arching stems to around 50cm bearing oval, pleated leaves. Open sprays of small, cream, star-shaped flowers in spring are followed by fleshy red fruit

Synonyms
Smilacina japonica
Maianthemum japonicum var. mandshurica
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Cream Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green Red
Winter
Position
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or North–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Asparagaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Potentially harmful
Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus

Maianthemum are rhizomatous perennials with erect or arching stems bearing alternate leaves and small star-shaped flowers in terminal racemes or panicles, followed by red berries

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Japan, China, Korea

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, humus-rich, lime-free, moist but well-drained soil in partial shade. Shelter from cold winds

Propagation

Propagate by seed in pots in a cold frame in autumn, or by division of rhizomes in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Ground cover
  • Underplanting of roses and shrubs
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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