Family: Convallariaceae
Common Name: Lily-of-the-valley

Lily-of-the-valley is renowned for its lovely, bell-shaped flowers and delicate, haunting fragrance which is an important ingredient in the making of perfumes. It is difficult to grow in areas where the winters are not sufficiently cold. It grows to 15 cm (6 in) and produces broad, blade-like leaves.

Species

C. majalis, the most widely cultivated species, has tiny, pendent, white flowers. The red berries which follow the flowers are poisonous, and quite dangerous as they are sweet enough to be tempting, especially to children. Cultivar 'Fortin's Giant' produces larger flowers; rose(' produces pink flowers.

Cultivation

Convallaria does best in woodland conditions, with rich soil, semi-shade and ample moisture. Plant out the bulbs or 'pips' in early winter and top dress every year with peat or leaf mould. Under suitable conditions, these plants multiply rapidly. Indoors, lily-of-thevalley can be grown from pips gently forced into early flower. Plant the pips, with just the tips showing, in sphagnum moss. Keep in a dark, moist place for a week and water regularly. Gradually expose them to more light, then place in normal light, but not direct sun, about two weeks after planting. They will start flowering about a week later. Propagate by seed or by division of the existing clumps in spring or autumn.

Climate

Zone 3.