Convallaria majalis
Overview
Uses: Shade gardens, woodland borders, underplanting beneath trees, naturalized areas, groundcover
Benefits: Arching stems of bell-shaped white flowers appear in spring above rich green foliage. Its spreading habit forms dense carpets in shaded spaces where many plants struggle, providing dependable seasonal interest.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–8
Sun: Partial Shade to Full Shade
Life Cycle: Hardy Perennial
Growth Habit: Groundcover, Spreading — rhizomes form dense colonies.
Bloom Color: White
Foliage Color: Green
Mature Height: 6–8 inches
Mature Width: 12–18 inches
Bloom Season: Mid–Late Spring
Growth Rate: Moderate
Summary
Convallaria majalis, commonly known as Lily of the Valley, is a classic woodland perennial admired for its delicate spring blooms and graceful presence.
Slender stems carry nodding white bells above a low canopy of lush green leaves. In shaded landscapes, it gradually spreads to create uniform groundcover beneath trees, along woodland paths, or in naturalized garden areas.
Once established, it returns reliably each spring and maintains attractive foliage after flowering, contributing texture and coverage in low-light settings.
Care
Convallaria majalis Care
Plant in partial to full shade in moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Consistent moisture during establishment supports healthy root development.
Water during dry periods, particularly in the first growing season. Mulching helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature in shaded beds.
Apply a light feeding in early spring with slow release fertilizer if desired to support vigorous foliage growth.
Allow foliage to remain after flowering so the plant can store energy for the following season. Remove spent foliage once it naturally declines.
Size
What Size is Convallaria majalis for Sale Online?
Plants ship at a healthy, transplant-ready stage suitable for establishing in shaded garden areas. Size at shipment varies slightly by season. For current grow pot size and availability, please contact us.
How Large Does Convallaria majalis Grow?
At maturity, plants typically reach 6–8 inches tall and spread 12–18 inches wide, gradually forming dense colonies that function as effective groundcover.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
Convallaria majalis is commonly known as lily of the valley. It may also be called May bells.
Will this plant spread in the garden?
Yes. It spreads by underground rhizomes and gradually fills shaded areas, making it well suited to naturalized plantings and woodland-style landscapes.
Is this plant suitable for deep shade?
It performs well in partial to full shade and is often included among groundcovers used beneath trees and in low-light garden spaces.
Does it bloom every year?
Once established, plants reliably produce spring flowers each year, with bloom coverage increasing as colonies mature.
