Every year the Perennial Plant Association (PPA) chooses one outstanding perennial to be designated Perennial Plant of the Year. The plant must be suitable for a wide range of climates and be low maintenance. This year the PPA chose variegated Solomon's seal (Polygonatum odoratum 'Variegatum'). Solomon's seal is a zone 4 woodland plant that prefers partial to full shade and moist soils.The white variegation around the leaf's edge brightens a shady garden. The arching shoots and dangling spring flowers add an interesting architectural form to the landscape. As the season progresses, interesting bluish-black fruits form. Care should be taken not to consume the poisonous berries. In fall, the leaves turn yellow. All in all, this is a plant that has a long season of interest. The plant spreads by rhizomes and looks great naturalized in a hosta bed.

by Esther McGinnis, Extension Horticulturist