Skip to main content

Solomon's-plume

Maianthemum racemosum

Last reviewed: July 2026

Maianthemum racemosum (Solomon's-plume) is a native North American perennial blooming May through June with fragrant white flower clusters. This woodland plant thrives in partial shade across most US states.

Solomon's-plume (Maianthemum racemosum)
Photo: (c) Don Loarie, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Don Loarie

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

12"–24" H × 8"–16" W

Bloom

May, Jun

Native to

AL, AR, AZ, CA and 44 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Deer

Resistant (per Prairie Moon Nursery)

Solomon's-plume is an elegant native perennial with arching stems topped by feathery white flower clusters in late spring. The broad leaves create attractive groundcover in shaded areas, and small red berries follow the blooms in summer.

Growing Solomon's-plume

Grow Solomon's-plume in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 24 inches tall and spread 8 to 16 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.

In an HOA neighborhood

Solomon's-plume 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

Wildlife value

The fragrant flowers attract native bees and beetles in May and June. Birds enjoy the small red berries that develop in late summer.

Common questions

When does Maianthemum racemosum bloom?
Solomon's-plume blooms during May and June, producing fragrant white flower clusters followed by red berries in late summer.
What pollinators visit Solomon's-plume?
Bees and beetles are the primary pollinators of Maianthemum racemosum, attracted to its small fragrant flowers.
Where is Maianthemum racemosum native?
Solomon's-plume is native throughout most of North America, found in woodlands from coast to coast including all continental US states except Nevada.
What growing conditions does Solomon's-plume prefer?
This woodland perennial thrives in partial shade with medium moisture but adapts to various light and water conditions, making it versatile for native gardens.
Is Solomon's-plume HOA-friendly?
Solomon's-plume 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 Solomon's-plume? 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