Many cultures attribute nearly magical properties to the herb called Solomon’s Seal. Once considered an aphrodisiac, it is now mostly used as a poultice that is believed to fade bruises, or in a mixed herbal tea.

Solomon’s Seal grows in virgin woodlands, but also in overused woodlots. It will grow in any kind of soil, and at almost any exposure, though it does best in at least partial shade. It is a hardy perennial with a global range, depending upon the species.

In one common species of North America, Polygonatum biflorum, the plant grows to between a foot and a half and two feet tall (if not more), and each stem arches gracefully towards the ground.

The plant bears clusters of small tubular light yellow-green flowers in spring. They hang beneath stems full of large oval light green leaves. The pleasantly scented flowers may attract bumblebees and other long-tongued insects. Later in summer, the blossoms mature into pea-sized dark blue-violet fruits, which are said to be poisonous.

The spring shoots, however, are sometimes steamed and eaten like asparagus. The starchy roots also may be eaten, but only after being boiled in three changes of water.

The plant takes its name from a legend about the great king Solomon. Folklore says he had a ring engraved with the true name of God. This ring, sent to him from heaven, gave him power over supernatural beings. As well as serving as a symbol of his wisdom and strength, the ring protected his realm.

The knotty whitish roots of the Solomon’s Seal are marked at intervals by circular scars, which are thought to resemble the legendary seal of King Solomon, and are believed to symbolize the plant’s benign power.

Country herbalists say that Solomon’s Seal stops lengthy menstruation. It is seldom used that way anymore, as the toxicity of each individual plant is uncertain. As a love potion, a powdered form of the herb was part of a lengthy recipe.

Poultices of the freshly mashed root are still put on bruises, in the belief that this will quickly fade them. A tisane or herbal tea available at some health food stores that contains dried Solomon’s Seal is believed by some to be laxative.

The original Solomon’s seal was seen as a sure protection against evil. The herb has inherited some of that aura, of the power of the light to drive out darkness. Whatever the modern gardener may believe, the plant still makes a lovely and hardy addition to a shady corner of the herb garden.