Most of us are aware of the cottage garden plant Solomon's Seal, but there have been a number of other common names applied to this plant over the years too.

David's Harp, Lady's Seal, Job's Tears, Lady's Lockets and Ladder To Heaven - a definite biblical theme here!

The name Solomon's Seal has an uncertain derivation but goes back to the Middle Ages at least. Other names come from the habit of the flower stalks (which arch like a harp) and the drooping pearl-like flowers (which could be taken for tears).

Rather endearingly, the Latin name of the plant, Polygonatum, means "many knees" and is named for the knobby rootstock.