False Solomon's Seal (Smilacina racemosa)
Aliases: Branched Solomon's Seal
As summer progresses, the delicate white blooms on this plant will grow into delicate little red berries that compensate for their beauty by being (when raw, at least) completely poisonous. False Solomon's Seal may look innocent, but it's firmly in the cute-but-dangerous category, like Yoda or a rabid chihuahua.
Blooms: April - July
Smilacina racemosa etymology: Smilacina is a Greek term meaning "little smilax"; smilax itself is a genus, its meaning derived from Latin & Greek words for bindweed. Racemosa derives from the Latin word for a bunch of grapes, referring here to the arrangement of the flowers on the stem.
This Photo: Along the Lewis Creek trail, mid June
Other Resources: CalFlora · CalPhotos
More Photos
 Flowers |
 The Plant |
 Flowers Closeup |