Star False Solomon's-seal
Smilacina stellata
Last reviewed: August 2026
Toxicity unknown
Star False Solomon's-seal (Smilacina stellata) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AZ, CA, CO and 38 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 437 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
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Star false solomon's-seal forms neat clumps of arching stems with bright green leaves and clusters of small white flowers in late spring. This woodland native produces attractive red berries in fall and provides reliable groundcover in shaded areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Star False Solomon's-seal is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare spots
Wildlife value
The spring flowers attract native bees and beetles for pollination. The red berries provide food for songbirds and small mammals in late summer and fall.
Common questions
- How much sun does Star False Solomon's-seal need?
- Star False Solomon's-seal grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Star False Solomon's-seal bloom?
- Star False Solomon's-seal blooms in May and June.
- Where is Star False Solomon's-seal native?
- Star False Solomon's-seal (Smilacina stellata) is native to AL, AZ, CA, CO and 38 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
- What pollinators does Star False Solomon's-seal attract?
- Star False Solomon's-seal draws bees and beetles.
- Is Star False Solomon's-seal HOA-friendly?
- Star False Solomon's-seal is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Star False Solomon's-seal? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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