Convallaria (Lily of the Valley) Care Guide: Growing & Maintenance in NZ

Lily of the Valley Convallaria

Lily of the valley, scientifically known as Convallaria majalis, is a beloved woodland flowering plant. Renowned for its delicate, sweetly scented, bell-shaped white flowers, it graces gardens in spring. This low-growing perennial forms lush ground cover, thriving in shady areas. It has strong cultural significance, is used in many celebrations, and is also a common part of bridal bouquets. Our articles explore Convallaria in detail so you can grow amazing Lily of the Valley plants.

Convallaria (Lily of the Valley) Characteristics

Lily of the Valley is a perennial plant, meaning it returns year after year. It belongs to the Asparagaceae family and thrives in temperate climates. Here are some key characteristics of this enchanting plant:

Appearance

• It grows to about 20-25 cm tall and produces small, white, bell-shaped flowers in late spring. These hang gracefully from slender stems. Each stem typically supports five to fifteen blossoms, which emit a sweet and intoxicating fragrance.
• The plant's leaves are broad and lance-shaped, growing in pairs from the base. They provide a lush backdrop to the delicate flowers and remain green throughout the summer, adding to the plant's ornamental value.

Growth Habit

• Convallaria spreads through underground stems and will form a dense colony over time. This growth habit makes it an excellent ground cover for shaded areas, as it can quickly fill in spaces and suppress weed growth.

Toxicity

• While beautiful, the Lily of the Valley is toxic if ingested. All parts of the plant contain cardiac glycosides, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and irregular heartbeats if consumed. It's essential to plant it out of reach of pets and children and to handle it with care.

Convallaria (Lily of the Valley) Varieties In NZ

There are two main varieties of Convallaria in NZ; Convallaria majalis and Convallaria majalis Rosea. Convallaria majalis produces pure white flowers whereas Convallaria majalis Rosea produces elegant, pink flowers. Aside from the flower colour, both varieties grow similarly and require partial shade and a well-drained soil to perform well.

Convallaria Uses and Symbolism

Lily of the Valley is not only valued for its beauty but also for its symbolism and uses in various traditions:

Symbolism

• The plant is often associated with purity, humility, and the return of happiness. It is a popular choice for weddings and is the birth flower for May, symbolizing sweetness and motherhood.

Fragrance and Decor

• The fragrant flowers of the Lily of the Valley are used in perfumes and scented products. Their sweet aroma makes them a favourite for bridal bouquets and floral arrangements, adding a touch of elegance and nostalgia.

Ground Cover

• Due to its spreading nature, the Lily of the Valley is an excellent ground cover for shaded areas. It can be used to create lush, green carpets under trees and in woodland gardens, providing a beautiful backdrop for other shade-loving plants.

Growing and Caring for Convallaria Lily Of The Valley

Convallaria Lily of the Valley is relatively easy to grow, making it a favourite among gardeners. Here are some tips to help you cultivate this lovely plant:

Planting

• The best time to plant Lily of the Valley is in autumn or early spring. Choose a location with partial to full shade and well-drained soil. The plant prefers moist, rich soil, so consider incorporating organic matter or compost into the soil to improve soil quality. Avoid full sun positions as this will likely cause leaf scorching.
• When planting, dig small holes about 5 cm deep. Place the bulbs in the holes, cover with soil, then give them a light water if the soil is dry. For potted plants, simply plant them at the same height as the growing media they are in. The spacing between plants is usually 15 cm apart.

Watering and Fertilizing

• Lily of the Valley prefers consistently moist soil, so regular watering is essential, especially during dry spells. However, be cautious not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
• Fertilising is best undertaken in spring with garden fertiliser spread lightly and evenly across the soil surface. This is a balanced fertilizer that will provide the plant with all the nutrients it needs to thrive.

Pruning and Maintenance

• The plant generally requires minimal maintenance. Remove spent flowers to prevent the plant from expending energy on seed production. In late autumn, trim back any yellowed or dead foliage to keep the garden tidy.
• If the plant becomes too dense, divide them every 2-3 years in early spring or autumn. This will promote healthy growth and prevent overcrowding.