Lily of the valley

Convallaria majalis | Also known as: Word lily, Conval lily, Mayflower, Mugget | Rating: 0 votes | Print / Pdf

Usually found in bungalow front gardens more than valleys.

Convallaria majalis, or the Lily of the Valley, is a wonderful flowering plant that spouts with delicate, bell shaped blooms during the springtime. These hang from the stems, nodding in the breeze and emitting a wonderful fragrance. A hardy little lady, she enjoys a shaded or partially shaded position in the garden, as well as being sheltered from driving wind and rain. A good choice for a cottage garden, however do be aware that all parts of the plant are highly toxic if ingested.

Rate it:
Plant
Known dangers?
  • yes
Dangers: comments
  • Avoid eating seeds, or risk having mild stomach upset.
Height [m]
  • 0.23
Spread [m]
  • 0
Dominant flower colour
  • White
Flower Fragrance
  • Yes, let it smell
Flowering seasons
  • Early spring
  • Mid spring
  • Late spring
Foliage in spring
  • Green
Foliage in summer
  • Green
Awards?
  • Yes, let it smell
Propagation methods
  • seed
  • rhizome cuttings
Growth habit
  • Tufted
Environment
Acidity
  • Acidic
  • Neutral
  • Alkaline
Hardiness zone
  • Z2-7
Heat zone
  • H7-1
Winter temperatures [°C]
  • -46 - -12
Heat days
  • 0 - 90
Moisture
  • well-drained but frequently watered
  • poorly-drained
Soil type
  • Clay
  • chalky
  • loams
Sun requirements
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
  • Full shade
Exposure
  • Sheltered
Usage
Standard category
  • Flowers & bulbs
  • Perennials
Grown for
  • Fragrant flowers
Creative category
  • Fine fragrants
  • For Beginners
  • We love the dark
  • Colours
  • For birds & bees
  • Author's choice
Garden type
  • Woodland
  • Cottage garden
Garden spaces
  • Cut flowers
  • Underplanting
  • Shade
  • Ground cover
  • Borders
Gardening expertise
  • beginner
Time to reach full size
  • 2 to 5 years
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