This shade garden classic is beloved for its fragrant, bell-shaped flowers in the spring.
This graceful, creeping ground cover blooms in spring, growing only about 6 to 8 inches high.
The arching stems bear small, nodding, delightfully sweet-scented, waxywhite bell-shaped flowers.
Credit:David Q. Cavagnaro/Getty Images
The plant spreads via rhizomes and forms colonies over time.
In some areas, it is considered invasive.Lily of the valley is toxic to humans and pets.
It thrives inshady environmentsand all kinds of soil as long as it’s rich and has good drainage.
Space the plants about 6 inches apart.
The plants will grow together over time, spreading via rhizomes.
It is considered invasive in regions with moist, cool winters, such as Wisconsin and Arkansas.
Light
Lily of the valley grows best in partial sunlight.
The plants will tolerate areas with direct morning sun but need protection from the afternoon sun.
In hot, southern climates, full shade is best.
Water
Until it is established, lily of the valley needs regular watering.
Dry soil hinders plant growth.
It is not suitable for dry, hot climates and might die back during the hottest summer months.
Fertilizer
Lily of the valley requires no fertilization if the soil is rich in organic matter.
If you want to boost the nutrient content of poor soil, add a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
For a neater look, cut dry, yellow, or brown flower stalks after the bloom.
Make a horizontal cut at least a quarter inch above the base.
Dividing the roots every two to four years in the fall or early spring prevents overcrowding and unwanted spreading.
The seeds need at least two months of cold stratification to germinate.
Overwintering
Since lily of the valley is a hardy plant, it doesn’t require winter protection.
Maintain the growing environment by pulling weeds near the flowers and removing other debris near the plant.
The leaves of infected plants turn yellow or brown or show lesions and eventually die back.
Remove infected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide labeled for use on ornamental plants.
The flowers of older rhizomes might not be as showy.
Dividing your plants helps to rejuvenate them and produce better blooms.
Failure to bloom may also be temperature-related.
Lily of the valley needs cold winters to bloom.
You canforce them for indoor floweringor plant them in your garden to flower in the spring.
In areas with long, hot summers, lily of the valley will turn brown.
Keeping plants well-watered will help prevent this from occurring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lily of the valley can cause skin irritation when touched.
Its best to wear gloves and wash your hands after handling it.
It is toxic if ingested.
Smelling lily of the valley is safe.
The flowers have a sweet floral scent that is often combined in fragrance production with other delicate floral notes.
Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States.Lily of the Valley.
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.Lily of the Valley.
North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension.Convallaria majalis.
