Biological Flora of Britain and Ireland: Polygonatum multiflorum *

Abstract

Abstract This account presents information on all aspects of the biology of Polygonatum multiflorum (L.) All. (Asparagaceae), Solomon's Seal, that are relevant to understanding its ecological characteristics and behaviour. The main topics are presented within the standard framework of the Biological Flora of Britain and Ireland: distribution, habitat, communities, responses to biotic factors, responses to environment, structure and physiology, phenology, floral and seed characters, herbivores and disease, history and conservation. Polygonatum multiflorum is a rhizomatous, clonal perennial herb found in Britain and Ireland primarily in forests, but also in hedgerows and shaded grasslands. The native range consists of much of temperate Europe, extending into western Asia, and is typically associated with nutrient‐rich, moist to well‐drained substrates. The species is a characteristic component of semi‐natural woodland understorey flora, often co‐occurring with other shade‐tolerant species, such as Mercurialis perennis and Anemone nemorosa . The flowers of P. multiflorum are pendulous, tubular, and creamy‐white with green tips, arranged in axillary clusters along the arching stem. They are primarily pollinated by long‐tongued bees and bumblebees. The resulting dull blue berries are dispersed by birds, contributing to the plant's spread across suitable habitats. Vegetative reproduction via rhizome extension is also common, leading to more or less distinct shoot clusters. The species is relatively unpalatable to herbivores due to the presence of steroidal saponins, though it is sometimes browsed by deer and by insects such as the specialized Solomon's‐seal sawfly ( Phymatocera aterrima ). It is also susceptible to fungal infections, which cause rust diseases. Recent studies have focused on the genetic fitness of populations under habitat fragmentation, on climate change effects on the species' phenology and on the vegetative and generative reproductive strategies that determine its dispersal dynamics. Historically, Polygonatum multiflorum has been valued in herbal medicine for its purported wound‐healing and anti‐inflammatory properties. P. multiflorum is often associated with ancient woodland. While this species is currently not at risk of extinction, woodland management practices, habitat fragmentation, and climate change might cause population declines or range contraction.

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