Perennial Plant of the Year is indestructible

Since 1990 the Perennial Plant Association has been showcasing the Perennial Plant of the Year.

This year's selection is Polygonatum odoratum ‘Variegatum’ the common name for the plant is Solomon's seal.

I grow a non-variegated variety and it's simply indestructible. The variegated plant is prettier, loves a shady location and will live for decades if not centuries. Even though it loves shade, it will take part sun too.

The plant gets 18 to 24 inches tall and will spread by underground runners creating nice colonies. The foliage will turn a pretty shade of yellow in fall.

The delicate white flowers bloom in late spring and have a wonderful sweet aroma. The stems are great for using in flower arrangements too.

I think of it as one of those plants which is underused in the landscape.

It should be available a local nursery and is also carried by White Flower Farm.