King Solomon's Seal (Polygonatum commutatum)

Family: Convallariaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Polygonatum commutatum is a PERENNIAL growing to 2 m (6ft) by 0.6 m (2ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower in May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Shoots, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Rich in starch, it can be dried and ground into a powder then used as a thickener in soups etc or can be added to flour when making cakes, bread or whatever. — Young shoots - cooked.; They can be used as an asparagus substitute.; A parsnip-like flavour.; Rich in starch, it can be dried and ground into a powder then used as a thickener in soups etc or can be added to flour when making cakes, bread or whatever.

Habitat & North American Range

Moist woodland and copses, often by streams. Plants are rarely found in dry soils. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)