Maianthemum racemosum (False Solomon’s Seal)

Native woodland perennial • Arching form • Late-spring blooms

Maianthemum racemosum is a graceful native woodland plant known for its arching stems, feathery white flower clusters, and bright red berries later in the season. An elegant addition to shade gardens and a valuable species for forest ecosystems.

 Light

• Part shade to full shade
  
  

• Happy under hardwood canopy
  
  

• Tolerates deep shade
  
  

• Morning sun acceptable
  
  

Avoid intense afternoon sun in summer.

 Water

• Prefers moist, rich soil
  
  

• Moderately drought tolerant once established
  
  

• Avoid prolonged dry periods during spring growth
  
  

Summer dormancy is normal during heat/drought.

Soil

• Woodland loam or organic soil
  
  

• Leaf mold is ideal
  
  

• Tolerates clay if amended
  
  

• Good drainage prevents crown rot
  
  

 Hardiness

• USDA Zones 3–8
  
  

• Excellent for temperate woodlands
  
  

 Blooming

• Mid to late spring
  
  

• Fragrant white fluffy flower clusters
  
  

• Followed by green berries ripening to red
  
  

• Supports spring pollinators and woodland wildlife
  
  

Growth Habit

• Arching stems 2–3 ft
  
  

• Slowly spreading rhizome
  
  

• Forms elegant colonies in time
  
  

• Soft texture and graceful movement.

Planting Notes

Depth: crown just at or slightly below soil surface
Spacing: 12–18 inches
Mulch with shredded leaves annually

Allow natural leaf litter, it loves woodland floors.

 Best Landscape Uses

• Shade gardens
  
  

• Woodland understory
  
  

• Native forest restorations
  
  

• Shaded borders
  
  

• Naturalistic edges along paths
  
  

• Spring interest plantings
  
  

 Companion Plants

Pairs beautifully with:

• Trillium
  
  

• Heuchera
  
  

• Ferns
  
  

• Virginia bluebells
  
  

• Bloodroot
  
  

• Foamflower (Tiarella)
  
  

Native Value

Important early pollinator plant that also produces wildlife berries. Supports forest ecosystems and provides multi-season interest from bloom to fruit.

⚠ Common Problems

Leaves yellowing early

Heat stress or drought—shade and moisture help.

Sparse flowering

Too dry or too dark—slightly more light improves bloom.

Slow spread

Normal—this is a patient woodland plant.