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Star False Solomon's-seal

Smilacina stellata

Last reviewed: July 2026

Star False Solomon's-seal (Smilacina stellata)
Photo: (c) Tom Norton, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Tom Norton

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

12"–24" H × 12"–18" W

Bloom

May, Jun

Native to

AL, AR, CA, CO and 37 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

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, AR, CA, CO and 37 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
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 USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. 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.

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz