Convallaria majalis – Flowering plants

Convallaria majalis (Lily of the valley) is an ornamental, herbaceous perennial, flowering plant. The plant stems grows up to 5 – 14 inches tall, with 1 or 2 leaves 3 – 10 inches long, the blossoming stems have two leaves and a raceme of 5 to 15 blooms at the apex of the stem. The blossoms have 6 white tepals (rarely pink), fused at the base to form a bell-shape, 0.5 to 1 cm diameter, and sweetly scented, blooming is in late spring but will bloom in early March if the winter has been mild. May bells spread by rhizomes underground and spread rapidly. It is highly fragrant and extremely poisonous. All parts of the plant are highly toxic, including the red berries. If ingested, even in small amounts the plant can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, reduced heart rate, blurred vision, drowsiness, and red skin rashes. Keep away from children and pets.

Scientific Name: Convallaria majalis
Common Names: Lily of the valley, May bells, Our Lady’s tears, Mary’s tears, and muguet.

 

 

 

 

 

How to grow and maintain Convallaria majalis (Lily of the valley):

Light:
It thrives best in partial shade, or shade. In indoors, a north or east facing window is a good choice.

Soil:
It prefers fertile soil with plenty of organic matter, moist but well-drained soil. It prefers the soil pH 5.5 to 6.5 (slightly acidic).

Temperature:
Lily of the valley prefers an ideal temperature between 55 degrees Fahrenheit – 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Water:
Water your plant regularly during the growing season and always keep the soil moist but not soggy. During the winter season, reduce watering and you can allow the topsoil to become slightly dry between each watering.

Fertilizer:
Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half while plant is growing. Try not to feed while dormant.

Propagation:
It can be easily propagated by division or by seeds (Seeds can take months to germinate). Divide plants right after flowering or in the fall. Cut the rhizomes apart, leaving some roots attached to each piece. This plant naturally spreads by underground rhizomes that can be dug up and replanted.

Pests and Diseases:
Ther is no serious pest and disease problems. But Aphids are the biggest problems. Use an insecticide if aphids are noticed. The fungal spot may occasionally appear. If it does, cut the affected leaf down to the ground, and destroy the cut leaf.