Maianthemum oleracea

Formerly Smilacina, Mianthemum is an elegant and sophisticated plant, ideal for growing in cool, moist shade. At first glance the plant could be mistaken for Solomon's seal, as the arching stems and the paired foliage look very similar. However when it flowers, slightly later than Solomon's seal, the difference emerges: mianthemum has long fluffy, cream plumes of flowers at the tip of each stem, similar in character to astilbe.

Mianthemum oleracea is particularly striking. The foliage rises early in the season and is held on tall, rigid stems. It bears red-edged, white flowers in huge clusters at the tips of stems.

Plants spread slowly by underground rhizomes, building up into dense clumps. For best results grow in moist soil in a shady position.