Etymology: Polygonatum: Greek for "with many knees," probably in reference to knobby rootstock
Plants: erect to arching, perennial, 1'-5' tall forb
Leaves: stalkless, often clasping, paler below, hairless, oblong, alternate
Flowers: white to yellowish, 6-parted, 1/2"-2/3" long, tubular-shaped, stalked, petal-like tepals united; inflorescence usually small, stalked clusters hanging downward along the stem; blooms May-July
Fruits: 1/4" blue berry
Habitat: full to partial sun; dry to moderate moisture; woods, prairies; in sandy, loamy soil
Conservation Status: Native

Flora of North America: Flora of North America Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 4, Wetland Indicator = FACU Atlas of the Wisconsin Prairie and Savanna Flora: by T.S. Cochrane & H.H. Iltis: habitat, distribution infomation / flowering and fruiting times USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos Dan Tenaglia's The Missouri Flora: Fabulous photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leave arrangement key. Illinois Wildflowers: Wonderful photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leaf arrangement key Southwest School of Botanical Medicine: Britton & Brown Illustrated Flora - 2nd Edition (1913) "An Illustrated Flora of the Northern United States and Canada" Southwest School of Botanical Medicine: Britton & Brown Illustrated Flora - 2nd Edition (1913) "An Illustrated Flora of the Northern United States and Canada"