Lily of the Valley
Convallaria majalis
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
9 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moist but well-drained
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe and Asia
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Convallaria majalis, commonly known as Lily of the Valley, is a perennial herbaceous plant with delicate, arching stems bearing small, bell-shaped white flowers and broad, lance-shaped green leaves. This species is highly valued for its fragrant flowers and its ability to thrive in shaded woodland gardens, forming dense, ground-covering colonies.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck bulbs 1-2 inches deep in well-draining soil.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
- Place in partial shade for optimal growth.
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall.
- Tend regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Pro Tip
Plant in partial shade with moist, well-draining soil for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch to retain moisture and regulate temperature
- Divide clumps in early spring or fall
Don't
- Avoid overly dry or waterlogged soil ❌
- Do not expose bulbs to direct, harsh sunlight
- Never allow soil to dry out completely
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Lily of the Valley questions
What zones can Lily of the Valley grow in?
Lily of the Valley is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Lily of the Valley deer resistant?
Yes — Lily of the Valley is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Lily of the Valley bloom?
Lily of the Valley typically blooms in spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Lily of the Valley need full sun?
Lily of the Valley does best in part shade.
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Keep exploring
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Lily of the Valley with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
