It is a rhizomatous perennial growing to 90 cm (35 in) tall by 25 cm (10 in) broad, with arching stems of alternate leaves, and slightly necked, pendent tubular white flowers with green tips, hanging from the undersides of the stems.

It is valued in cultivation for its ability to colonise shady areas, and is suitable for a woodland style planting.

The longevity of cut shoots of Polygonatum multiflorum ‘Variegatum’ harvested from the field ranges from 15 to 22 days.

To extend the life of cut shoots, gibberellic acid, benzyladenine (BA) and hydroxyquinoline sulphate are used.

[4] The hybrid Polygonatum × hybridum (P. multiflorum × P. odoratum) has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.