Convallaria majalis var. rosea (Lily of the Valley)

Ideal for shady areas and heavy clay, Convallaria majalis var. rosea (Lily of the Valley) is a low-growing rhizomatous perennial forming a lush, spreading groundcover. Blooming for 3 weeks in mid to late spring, up to 5-10 sweetly scented, nodding, bell-shaped, pale mauve-pink flowers hang along slightly arching flowering stems. Cherished for their delicious perfume, they rise above the handsome foliage of paired elliptic green leaves. A real charmer and an outstanding performer, Lily of the Valley is trouble-free, requires little maintenance, and is deer and rabbit resistant. Long-lived, it naturalizes easily to form extensive colonies.

Lilly of the Valley belongs to the asparagus family (Asparagaceae), along with agave, hosta, dracaena, spider plant, and the delightfully fragrant hyacinth and tuberose.

It is one of the birth flowers for May, often symbolizing the return of happiness.

• Grows up to 6-9 in. tall (15-22 cm). It will spread quickly by rhizomes to form dense colonies in good growing conditions.
• Thrives in part shade to full shade in evenly moist, fertile, organically rich, well-drained soils. It will grow in full sun in northern regions if the soil remains moist. Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions, including clay soils. Dry conditions will tend to restrict its growth.
• A great naturalizer, it is an excellent choice as a ground cover and creates thick mats of fluted, dark green leaves. Can be grown under trees too.
• Wonderful as fresh cut flowers. A favorite of florists!
• Lily of the Valley greatly benefits from an annual application of organic compost each fall.
• Propagate by division in autumn.
• Toxic if ingested. Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.
• Convallaria majalis species is native to Europe, but has escaped cultivation and naturalized throughout much of temperate eastern and central North America plus parts of the Northwestern U.S. Can become invasive where well adapted.
• Find where this species is invasive in the United States.
• Discover beautiful U.S. native plant alternatives.