Convallaria majalis - Lily of the Valley

Grown for its wonderful scent, Convallaria majus is a rhizomatous, herbaceous perennial which spreads to form extensive colonies in woodland areas where the soil suits it. In May, upright racemes of heavily fragrant, bell-like white flowers appear, along with pairs of long, narrow, rather fleshy leaves. Red berries appear in autumn. Be aware that Lily of the Valley is highly toxic; it is used in homeopathic and herbal medicine. Holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Site: Sheltered, preferably under deciduous trees
Soil: Any moist, fertile soil high in humus
Position: Partial shade or full shade
Flowering period: May
Hardiness: Hardy
Height: 10” (25cm) Spread: 4” (10cm)