Grow lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis) in dappled to full shade and moist, organically rich soil. Before planting, make sure its rhizomes can spread without becoming a problem: it can form colonies and may be aggressive. The plant is poisonous if eaten, so choose a location where children and pets cannot reach it.
Choose a suitable site
Lily of the valley is a rhizomatous perennial native to Eurasia. It grows in dappled, partial, or full shade and prefers moist, organically rich soil, according to North Carolina State University Extension. The Royal Horticultural Society gives similar guidance for the cultivar ‘Fortin’s Giant’: fertile, humus-rich soil that stays moist, in full or partial shade.
These recommendations describe moist soil, not permanently waterlogged conditions. Local climate and garden conditions affect how well it grows and flowers, so check regional growing advice rather than assuming it will perform the same everywhere.
Plan for its spread
The plant spreads by rhizomes and can form colonies. An Ask Extension response describes it as potentially aggressive and advises removing all root pieces when hand-pulling small plants. Choose a spot where spreading is acceptable, and check local extension or invasive-plant guidance before planting. The available guidance does not establish that it is invasive everywhere or specify one containment method that works in every garden.
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- Includes 10 bare root rhizomes, each measuring 4-6 inches long, ready for planting.
- Lily of the Valley produces sweet, delicate white bell-shaped flowers with a classic, enchanting spring fragrance.
- These May Bells bloom in spring, adding white blossoms and lush greenery to your garden.
- Rhizomes arrive bare root for easy planting in garden beds, borders, or containers with minimal preparation.
- Lily of the Valley thrives in shaded to partially shaded areas, making it ideal for woodland or cottage gardens.
Plant and propagate lily of the valley
Division is the most directly supported practical way to propagate it. North Carolina State University Extension lists division in fall or propagation from seed; the RHS cultivar profile lists division in autumn. If buying plants or bare-root divisions, confirm the botanical name and local availability. The cited sources do not establish a universal planting depth or spacing, so follow the supplier’s directions for the specific material you receive.
Keep people and pets from eating it
Poison Control lists lily of the valley as poisonous. A documented berry-ingestion case explains that the plant contains a cardiac glycoside that may cause slow heart rate and vomiting. Do not eat any part of the plant, and site it so children and pets cannot ingest it. If ingestion is suspected in the United States, contact Poison Control through webPOISONCONTROL or call 1-800-222-1222; the berry case is described by Poison Control.
Rank #2
- Early Spring Bloom: Be among the first to witness the arrival of spring in your garden as the Pink Lily of the Valley bursts into bloom. Its delicate flowers emerge in early spring, adding a touch of freshness and vibrancy to the outdoor space.
- Fragrance: Just like its classic counterpart, the Pink Lily of the Valley emits a sweet fragrance. The scent is both uplifting and nostalgic, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate the sensory delights of their garden.
- Plant Height: The Pink Lily of the Valley typically reaches a height of 6 to 8 inches, creating a charming ground cover that adds depth and texture to the garden landscape. Its compact size makes it an ideal choice for border plantings or beneath taller shrubs and trees.
- Hardy and Low Maintenance: Lily of the Valley is known for its resilience and ability to thrive in various conditions. This Pink variety inherits the same hardiness, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. With minimal care, you can enjoy its beauty year after year.
- Versatile Planting Options: Whether you prefer container gardening, border planting, or creating a fragrant ground cover, the Pink Lily of the Valley adapts seamlessly to different environments. Its compact size makes it suitable for edging pathways or accentuating other floral arrangements.
Check regional suitability
Hardiness and local restrictions depend on location and, in some cases, cultivar. The RHS rates ‘Fortin’s Giant’ H3 for coastal and relatively mild UK areas, with a stated range of -5 to 1 °C. That rating is specific to this cultivar and UK conditions; do not treat it as a universal hardiness range for the species. Consult local climate guidance and regulations before planting.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Includes 5 bare root rhizomes, each measuring 4-6 inches long, ready for planting.
- Lily of the Valley produces sweet, delicate white bell-shaped flowers with a classic, enchanting spring fragrance.
- These May Bells bloom in spring, adding white blossoms and lush greenery to your garden.
- Rhizomes arrive bare root for easy planting in garden beds, borders, or containers with minimal preparation.
- Lily of the Valley thrives in shaded to partially shaded areas, making it ideal for woodland or cottage gardens.
Rank #4
- Fragrant Flowers: White Lily of the Valley is prized for its delicate, sweet-scented, white bell-shaped flowers that bloom in spring. These flowers are perfect for use in cut flower arrangements, adding a touch of fragrant charm to any space.
- Low-Growing Habit: This perennial is low-growing, making it an ideal choice for ground covers, borders, or for planting under larger trees or shrubs. It creates a lush, spreading carpet of foliage and flowers, adding texture and interest to any garden.
- Easy to Plant and Care For: The White Lily of the Valley bulb is easy to plant and care for, making it a great choice for novice and experienced gardeners alike. It is hardy and requires well-drained soil in partial to full shade for best results.
- Multi-Purpose Use: The White Lily of the Valley can be used in a variety of ways, including as a ground cover, border plant, or in cut flower arrangements. Its lush, spreading habit makes it perfect for mass planting along a shady garden path or as a filler in a mixed border.
- Long-Lasting: When planted in the right conditions, the White Lily of the Valley will quickly establish itself and grow into a lush, spreading clump that will provide years of beauty and enjoyment. Once established, it is low-maintenance and requires little care.
Rank #3
- Plant Type: Perennial flowering plant with fragrant
- Ideal Location: Suitable for both indoor and outdoor gardens
- Low-growing, spreading ground cover that forms lush
- Blooms in early spring, providing early season color and fragrance
- 10 Lily Of The Valley Roots, Perennial Lily Flower Plant, Lily Of The Valley Rhizomes Garden Indoor Outdoor
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