Diminutive shade perennial with paired broad leaves and arching stems of small intensely fragrant pendant white bells in late spring. Among the most powerfully fragrant flowers in the temperate garden.
Hardiness ratings
| System | Rating | Temperature range | How to read it |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA hardiness zone | Zone 3–8 | −40 °C to −6.7 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| RHS hardiness rating | H7 | down to −20 °C | Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance |
| Canadian plant hardiness zone | Zone 3–7 | −34 °C to −7 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| Australian (ANBG) zone | Zone 1–4 | −15 °C to 5 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
Growing notes
- Plant under deciduous trees and shrubs as ground cover — spreads slowly by underground rhizomes to form drifts
- Flowers May — wedding bouquet flower of choice for centuries, source of the muguet de mai fragrance of French parfumery
- WARNING: All parts highly toxic — contains cardiac glycosides, can cause serious poisoning, do not eat under any circumstance and keep berries away from children
- Tolerates deep shade — useful where many shade plants struggle
Pet caution: Lily of the valley is listed as potentially harmful to cats and/or dogs. Keep pets from grazing on it, and contact a vet if you suspect your animal has eaten some.
Categories
Related plants
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