Xil^ 3famili5. 



Great Solomon's Seal. Polygonatum giganteum. 



Giant Solomon's Seal. 



Found on rich banks, in partial shade, during June. 



The single leafy stalk grows from 3 to 8 feet high ; at first it 

 stands erect, but later the tip curves over and downward ; it is tough- 

 fibred, smooth and fine in surface, and green. 



The large broadly oval leaf is sometimes 6 inches long and 3 

 broad ; it is pointed at the tip, and partly clasps the stalk at its base ; 

 the margin is entire, the ribs parallel and deeply marked, and the 

 texture is fine, while the surface is smooth. In color it is a cool dark 

 green. The leaves occur alternately along the stalk. 



The tubular flower is from \ an inch to about f of an inch long, 

 and spreads into 6 divisions. The color is pale green, the tips of the 6 

 stamens which first show in the opening of the flower are pale straw- 

 color. The flowers swing on slender stems, from the angles of the 

 leaves, in clusters of two or three (or sometimes singly,) forming a row 

 upon the curving stalk. 



Following the flower-bells come the globular blue-black berries, 

 about the size of a pea ; they are fully as charming as the blossoms, but 

 seldom remain long on the stalk, since they are fully appreciated by the 

 birds who devour them quickly. This is a plant of fine gesture, and 

 splendid curves, too large to be figured full-size upon the accompanying 

 plate. 



590 



