Lily of the Valley

Convallaria majalis · Flower

Quick answer: Water: Keep soil moist. Light: Partial to full shade. Soil: Moist, rich in organic matter, neutral to slightly alkaline. Pets: ASPCA lists lily of the valley as toxic to cats and dogs; it contains cardiac glycosides that affect the heart. If a pet chews any part, contact your vet or a poison control line right away.

A shade-loving ground cover with tiny, intensely fragrant white bells in late spring. It spreads by rhizomes and can take over a bed, and every part of the plant is poisonous.

Care at a glance

Light

Partial to full shade

Water

Moist soil; tolerates short dry spells once established

Soil

Moist, rich in organic matter, neutral to slightly alkaline

Temperature

Hardy in USDA zones 3–7; needs winter cold

Spacing

At least 4 in apart, rhizomes about 3 in deep

Container

Pot at least 8 in deep keeps it from spreading (estimated)

Bloom

Late spring to early summer, about 3 weeks

Lifespan

Perennial

When?

Plant dormant rhizomes (pips) in fall once the soil has cooled, or divide established clumps in early spring. Flowers appear the following spring.

Step by step

1. Pick a shady spot with moist, rich soil, away from areas pets or children use.
2. Plant pips about 3 in deep, at least 4 in apart, in small groups.
3. Water well after planting and keep soil moist in the first season.
4. Mulch with compost each fall to feed the soil and hold moisture.
5. Use an edging or a pot to contain spreading roots.
6. Divide crowded clumps in early spring; wear gloves when handling the plant.

Common problems

Pets

ASPCA lists lily of the valley as toxic to cats and dogs; it contains cardiac glycosides that affect the heart. If a pet chews any part, contact your vet or a poison control line right away.

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