Convallaria majalis

Lily of the Valley

Convallaria majalis (commonly known as Lily of the Valley) is a classic, shade-loving perennial treasured for its fragrant, nodding white bell-shaped flowers and lush green foliage. Blooming in mid to late spring, it forms a dense, spreading groundcover that thrives where many plants struggle.


Plant Profile
Type: Herbaceous perennial groundcover

Mature Size:



Width: Spreads indefinitely by rhizomes



Height: 6–10 in.



Bloom:



Small, waxy white bells borne on arching stems



Intensely sweet fragrance



Mid to late spring



Foliage:



Broad, lance-shaped, medium green leaves



Attractive through early summer



Zones: 3a–8b
Light: Partial shade to full shade
Soil: Moist, well-drained soils; tolerates clay
Water: Moderate; prefers evenly moist soil


Features & Uses


Form: Low-growing, spreading groundcover



Excellent for woodland gardens, shaded borders, under trees, and naturalized areas



One of the most fragrant spring-flowering perennials



Deer and rabbit resistant



Classic companion for spring bulbs




Care Notes


Very low maintenance once established



Can spread aggressively—best used where containment is not an issue



Cut back foliage after it yellows naturally



Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Plant type

Perennial

Height

6-8'

Width

9-12"

Hardiness zones

3–8

Sunlight

Full sun to part shade

Bloom time

Late Spring, Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Attracts

Bees, Birds

Soil

Clay, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Ground Cover

Shape

Wide Spreading

Fruit

Yes

Drought tolerant

No