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Convallaria Majalis, or Lily of the Valley, is a timeless classic beloved for its enchanting fragrance, elegant beauty, and effortless charm. Here is why you should choose Lily of the Valley for your garden:
Bring the timeless beauty and captivating fragrance of Lily of the Valley to your garden today! Order your bare root plants now and start creating your own fragrant paradise.
Growing Lily of the Valley is surprisingly easy!
Getting Started with Bare Root Lily of the Valley Plants
Planting Your Bare Root Lily of the Valley
Caring for Your Lily of the Valley
Enjoying Your Lily of the Valley
With a little care, your Lily of the Valley will reward you with years of exquisite beauty and unforgettable fragrance! Happy Gardening!
Convallaria (kon-val-lay-ree-uh); Lily-of-the-Valley; Lily Family (Liliaceae). Native to Europe, Asia and mountain regions of the U.S., lily-of-the –valley fully deserves its reputation as one of the most adaptable ground covers and charming garden plants. To be most effective, it should be grown in very large masses, and since it needs shade, it is at its best when used as a ground cover under trees whose roots will not give it serious competition. For abundant flowering, plant in rich, moist well-drained soil; after several seasons plants should be dug, divided and replanted.
C. majalis (maj-ay-liss) grows 6 to 8 inches high with deliciously fragrant, cream-white flowers, 1/3 inches across, pendant along thin, wiry stems. The long-lasting, broadly oblong, dark green leaves make a solid ground cover.
Lily of the Valley: The Timeless Fragrance of Spring
Welcome the enchanting beauty and intoxicating perfume of Convallaria majalis, the beloved Lily of the Valley. A classic woodland perennial, this elegant ground cover transforms shady corners of the garden into a serene sea of lush green, punctuated by sprays of delicate, bell-shaped flowers. Its timeless charm and vigorous nature make it an indispensable plant for gardeners seeking low-maintenance beauty in challenging shady spots.
Native to the cool, temperate woodlands of the Northern Hemisphere, Lily of the Valley is a rhizomatous perennial that has captivated gardeners for centuries.
The plant emerges in spring with lush, deep green leaves that are typically paired. These lance-shaped or narrow ovate leaves grow 5 to 10 inches long and create a dense, verdant carpet. From the center of this foliage, a one-sided flowering stalk, or raceme, rises, bearing 5-15 nodding, bell-shaped flowers. If pollinated by a genetically different plant, these give way to small, ornamental (but toxic) red berries in late summer.
A Note on Toxicity: It is crucial to remember that all parts of the Convallaria majalis plant—leaves, flowers, stems, and berries—are highly poisonous if ingested. They contain cardiac glycosides, which can be dangerous to humans and pets. Always handle with care and plant away from areas frequented by curious children and animals.
Popular Lily of the Valley Cultivars
|
Variety |
Flower Color |
Foliage |
Characteristics |
|
majalis (Species) |
Pure White |
Solid Green |
The classic, beloved for its vigorous growth and strong fragrance. |
|
'Rosea' |
Light Pink |
Solid Green |
A unique variety offering charming, pale pink blossoms. |
|
'Aureovariegata' |
White |
Yellow-striped |
Features eye-catching leaves with distinct vertical yellow stripes. Slower to spread. |
|
'Fortin's Giant' |
White |
Solid Green |
A robust selection prized for its larger leaves and taller flower stalks (12-15 inches). |
|
'Prolificans' |
White |
Solid Green |
A rare "double-flowered" form with extra petals for a fuller, frilly look. |
|
'Albostriata' |
White |
White-streaked |
Elegant foliage showcases creamy-white lines and streaks, brightening shady spots. |
|
'Hardwick Hall' |
White |
Yellow Margin |
Distinctive leaves are neatly edged with a creamy yellow margin. |
Growing Conditions
Habit, Mature Height and Spread
Bloom Time and Flower Colors Lily of the Valley blooms for several weeks in late spring (typically May). Flowers are most commonly pure white, though the 'Rosea' cultivar offers a soft pink alternative.
Deer/Rabbit Resistance Due to its toxicity, Convallaria majalis is highly resistant to deer and rabbits, making it a reliable choice for gardens plagued by these animals.
Pest & Disease Resistance While generally robust, it can occasionally face issues:
Maintenance and Specific Care Instructions
Propagation Information The easiest and most common way to propagate Lily of the Valley is through division in the fall or early spring.
Managing Its Vigorous Spread In ideal conditions, Lily of the Valley can be aggressive. To keep it in bounds:
Landscaping and Design
Companion Planting Suggestions Lily of the Valley pairs beautifully with other shade-loving perennials that thrive in similar conditions.
Success Tips
Convallaria majalis, commonly known as lily of the valley, is a flowering plant with sweetly scented, bell-shaped white flowers. It is native to the cool temperate Northern Hemisphere in Asia and Europe but has been naturalized in many other parts of the world.
Lily of the valley is a popular garden plant, and its flowers are often used in wedding bouquets and other floral arrangements. However, it is important to note that all parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested, so it should be kept out of reach of children and pets.
Here are some of the characteristics of Convallaria majalis:
The taxonomy of Convallaria can be a bit confusing as it has undergone revisions over the years. Here is a breakdown of the currently accepted classification:
Kingdom: Plantae (Plants) Subkingdom: Tracheobionta (Vascular plants) Superdivision: Spermatophyta (Seed plants) Division: Magnoliophyta (Flowering plants) Class: Liliopsida (Monocotyledons) Order: Asparagales Family: Asparagaceae (Asparagus family) Subfamily: Nolinoideae Genus: Convallaria
Important Notes:
What this means:
This classification tells us about the evolutionary relationships of Convallaria. It shares characteristics with other monocots (one cotyledon in the seed), and its placement in Asparagaceae indicates a closer relationship to plants like asparagus, agave, and hostas than to true lilies.
Let us delve into the morphology of Convallaria, which encompasses its physical structure and appearance:
Overall Habit:
Leaves:
Flowers:
Fruits:
Variations:
While the above describes the typical morphology of Convallaria majalis, there can be variations:
Key Morphological Adaptations:
Understanding the morphology of Convallaria provides insights into its adaptations and how it thrives in its environment. It also helps in identifying different species and cultivars.
Convallaria, commonly known as Lily of the Valley, is thankfully quite easy to cultivate, rewarding gardeners with its elegant blooms and sweet fragrance. Here is a comprehensive guide to Convallaria cultivation:
1. Choosing the Right Location:
2. Planting:
3. Ongoing Care:
4. Propagation:
5. Pests and Diseases:
6. Special Considerations:
Tips for Success:
By following these cultivation practices, you can enjoy the beauty and fragrance of Convallaria in your garden for years to come.
Convallaria, with its delicate beauty and captivating fragrance, can be a wonderful addition to your landscape. Here are some design tips to help you make the most of this charming plant:
Embrace the Shade:
Groundcover Glamour:
Strategic Placement:
Design Considerations:
Creative Combinations:
Extra Tips:
By incorporating these design tips, you can create a captivating landscape that displays the elegance and fragrance of Convallaria. Remember to choose the right cultivar for your needs and consider its growth habits to ensure a harmonious and thriving garden.
Planting Convallaria majalis, also known as lily of the valley, is quite straightforward, but there are some key things to remember:
Timing:
The best time to plant is in fall, ideally from October to November, when the soil is cool and moist. Planting in early spring (March-April) is also possible, but fall planting usually leads to better establishment and earlier blooms the following year.
Choosing the right spot:
Planting process:
Aftercare:
Be aware that lily of the valley can spread quite readily, so you may need to divide the clumps every few years if they become too large.
Important note:
Planting bareroot Convallaria (Lily of the Valley) is a great way to establish this fragrant groundcover in your garden. Here is a step-by-step guide to ensure success:
1. Timing is Key:
2. Site Selection and Preparation:
3. Planting the Pips (Rhizomes):
4. Post-Planting Care:
Tips for Success:
Troubleshooting:
With proper planting and care, your bareroot Convallaria will reward you with its fragrant blooms and lush foliage for years to come.
While Convallaria majalis has only one species, it boasts a surprising variety within itself!
Here are some notable variations you might encounter:
Flower Color:
Foliage:
Size and Habit:
Other Interesting Cultivars:
Remember that these are just a few examples, and many other cultivars and variations exist. When choosing a Convallaria majalis for your garden, consider the desired flower color, foliage pattern, size, and any specific characteristics that appeal to you.
Mass planting Convallaria can create a stunning visual impact in your landscape, especially in shady areas where few other plants thrive. Here is how to achieve a breathtaking display:
1. Choose the Right Location:
2. Prepare the Planting Area:
3. Planting Technique:
4. Ongoing Care:
Design Ideas for Mass Planting:
Considerations:
With careful planning and proper care, mass plantings of Convallaria can transform your landscape into a fragrant and enchanting haven.
Caring for Convallaria majalis, also known as lily of the valley, in your garden is fairly simple once it is established. Here is a breakdown of the key points:
Watering:
Light and Temperature:
Soil and Fertilizing:
Mulching:
Deadheading and Pruning:
Dividing:
Important Reminders:
By following these simple care tips, you can enjoy the delicate beauty and sweet fragrance of lily of the valley in your garden for many years to come.
Lily of the Valley (Convallaria) is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but a little care throughout the year will keep it healthy and thriving. Here is a seasonal guide to keep your Convallaria looking its best:
Early Spring (March - April)
Mid-Spring (May - June)
Summer (July - August)
Fall (September - October)
Winter (November - February)
Ongoing Care:
Tips:
By following this calendar of care, you can ensure that your Convallaria remains healthy, vibrant, and fragrant for years to come.
Convallaria is famously fragrant! Its sweet, delicate scent is a major reason for its popularity. Here is a breakdown of its fragrance:
Intensity:
Character:
Factors Affecting Fragrance:
Uses of the Fragrance:
Experiencing the Fragrance:
If you are sensitive to strong scents, it is a good idea to test the fragrance of Convallaria before planting it extensively in your garden. However, for most people, the sweet and delicate scent of Lily of the Valley is a delightful sensory experience.
Convallaria majalis plants, commonly known as lily of the valley, do attract pollinators! They possess several features that make them appealing to different insects and animals:
While bees are likely the primary pollinators of Convallaria majalis due to their efficiency in collecting nectar, butterflies, moths, and even some flies can also contribute to the pollination process. This diverse group of pollinators ensures the successful reproduction of the plant and the continuation of its beautiful blooms.
It is important to note that while Convallaria majalis attracts pollinators, it can also be self-fertile, meaning it can produce seeds without requiring pollination. However, the presence of pollinators still plays a crucial role in increasing the quantity and quality of seed production.
Convallaria majalis, also known as lily of the valley, is generally quite resistant to pests and diseases, making it a relatively low-maintenance plant. However, there are a few potential problems to be aware of:
Pests:
Diseases:
Additional concerns:
By monitoring your plants and taking preventive measures, you can minimize the risk of pests and diseases affecting your Convallaria majalis and enjoy its beauty for many seasons to come.
Lily of the valley (Convallaria) is generally a hardy plant, but it can occasionally be affected by diseases. Here are some of the most common problems:
1. Southern Blight
2. Leaf Spots and Anthracnose
3. Aureobasidium Leaf Spot
4. Rust
5. Foliar Nematodes
General Tips for Preventing Diseases:
By being aware of these common Convallaria diseases and taking preventive measures, you can help ensure the health and beauty of your plants.
Yes, you absolutely can use Convallaria majalis, also known as lily of the valley, in floral arrangements! Their delicate white bell-shaped flowers and sweet fragrance make them a popular choice for a variety of arrangements, especially weddings and spring bouquets.
Here are some things to keep in mind when using Convallaria majalis in floral arrangements:
Here are some tips for using Convallaria majalis in floral arrangements:
With a little planning and care, you can use Convallaria majalis to create beautiful and fragrant floral arrangements that will be enjoyed by everyone.
Yes, Convallaria majalis, also known as lily of the valley, can be invasive in certain areas, particularly outside its native range. Here is a breakdown of its invasive potential:
Native Range:
Lily of the valley is native to temperate regions of Asia, Europe, and parts of North Africa.
Invasive Tendencies:
Regions Considered Invasive:
Factors Affecting Invasiveness:
Recommendations:
Remember:
By understanding the invasive potential of Convallaria majalis and making informed choices about its use, you can help protect native ecosystems and ensure a healthy balance in your local environment.
There are two ideal times to divide Convallaria majalis, also known as lily of the valley:
Fall:
Early Spring:
Additional Tips:
By following these tips, you can successfully divide your Convallaria majalis plants and enjoy their delicate beauty for many years to come.
Convallaria species, groups, and cultivars – it can be a bit complicated! Here is a breakdown:
Species:
While Convallaria majalis is the most widely recognized, the exact number of species within the Convallaria genus is debated. Some botanists recognize only one species (C. majalis) with regional variations, while others list up to three distinct species:
Groups:
There are not formally defined groups within Convallaria, but variations are often categorized by:
Cultivars:
Here are some popular Convallaria majalis cultivars:
Important to Note:
Convallaria keiskei, also known as the Japanese Lily of the Valley, is a close relative of the more common Convallaria majalis. While it shares many similarities, there are some key distinctions that make it unique.
Distinguishing Features:
Cultivation:
Landscape Uses:
Comparison to Convallaria majalis:
|
Feature |
Convallaria keiskei |
Convallaria majalis |
|
Native Range |
East Asia |
Europe and Asia |
|
Leaf Size |
Broader, thinner |
Narrower, thicker |
|
Flower Size |
Slightly larger |
Slightly smaller |
|
Fragrance |
More intense |
Slightly less intense |
Availability:
Convallaria keiskei might be slightly less common in nurseries than C. majalis, but it is becoming increasingly available as gardeners discover its unique qualities. You can often find it at specialty nurseries or online retailers specializing in woodland plants or Asian natives.
Interesting Fact:
In Japan, Convallaria keiskei is used in traditional medicine for its purported cardiac and diuretic properties. However, it is crucial to remember that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, and self-medication should be avoided.
If you are looking for a Lily of the Valley with a more intense fragrance and subtle distinctions, Convallaria keiskei is a wonderful choice. Its beauty, adaptability, and cultural significance make it a valuable addition to any shade garden.
Convallaria majalis, commonly known as Lily of the Valley, is a beloved woodland flowering plant cherished for its delicate beauty and sweet fragrance. Here is a comprehensive overview:
Botanical Characteristics:
Growing Conditions:
Landscape Uses:
Cultivation Tips:
Cautions:
Symbolism and Lore:
Popular Cultivars:
Convallaria majalis is a timeless classic that brings beauty and fragrance to shady gardens. With its easy care and versatility, it is a cherished plant for gardeners of all levels.
Convallaria 'Bordeaux' is a highly sought-after cultivar of Lily of the Valley, prized for its enhanced features and exceptional fragrance. Here is what makes it stand out:
Distinguishing Characteristics:
Growing Conditions:
'Bordeaux' shares the same preferences as other Convallaria:
Landscape Uses:
Advantages of 'Bordeaux':
If you are looking for a show-stopping Lily of the Valley with enhanced features, Convallaria 'Bordeaux' is an excellent choice. Its beauty, fragrance, and vigorous growth make it a true garden treasure.
Convallaria montana, also known as the American Lily of the Valley, is a captivating wildflower native to the Appalachian Mountains in the eastern United States. It is a subject of some botanical debate, as it is often considered a variety of the more widespread Convallaria majalis (Lily of the Valley).
Distinguishing Features:
Botanical Classification:
Cultivation:
Landscape Uses:
Conservation Status:
While not currently listed as endangered, habitat loss due to development and logging poses a threat to C. montana in some areas. It is important to protect its native habitats and consider ethical sourcing when purchasing plants for your garden.
Whether you consider it a distinct species or a variety of C. majalis, Convallaria montana is a charming wildflower that brings beauty and fragrance to the Appalachian landscape. Its adaptability and ecological importance make it a valuable addition to gardens within its native range.
Convallaria pseudomajalis is a name that has been used to describe the American Lily of the Valley, a plant found in the Appalachian Mountains of the eastern United States.
Here is where the controversy lies:
The current consensus seems to be leaning towards C. pseudomajalis being a distinct species. Recent studies and resources like Plants of the World Online recognize it as such. However, you may still find older sources or differing opinions that classify it as part of C. majalis.
Key features of Convallaria pseudomajalis:
Why the confusion?
Whether it is ultimately considered a distinct species or a variety of C. majalis, the American Lily of the Valley is a beautiful and unique plant with its own ecological importance in the Appalachian ecosystem.