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lily of the valley plant

The lily of the valley plant (Convallaria majalis) is cherished in New Zealand gardens for its exquisite, bell-shaped white flowers and enchanting fragrance. This perennial creates a stunning carpet of blooms in shaded areas from late spring to early summer, making it a classic choice for adding beauty and elegance beneath trees, along shaded borders, or in woodland gardens. With its lush green foliage and delicate, nodding blooms, the lily of the valley plant is an easy favourite for both seasoned gardeners and beginners looking to introduce a timeless, low-maintenance plant to their landscape.

Convallaria majalis

Convallaria majalis, commonly known as the Lily of the Valley, features small and sweetly fragrant blooms that are borne as clusters in spring. They are complemented with broad and lush, dark green leaves which provides for a wonderful colour contrast as it grows to 20 cm tall and the same wide. Convallaria majalis is commonly added to mixed plantings, planted around the base of trees, grown in a container, used in cottage gardens, planted alongside a water feature, or mass planted for a stunning display.

Convallaria majalis (Lily of the Valley) plant with white flowers and lush, green foliage.
  • Suited to regions:
    Subtropical, Temperate
  • Plant type:
    Perennials
  • Height:
    20 cm
  • Spread:
    20 cm
  • Flowering time:
    Spring
  • Tolerances:
    Wet
  • Garden uses:
    Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Patios, Ponds, Pool areas
  • Garden styles:
    Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Cottage, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, White
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Convallaria majalis

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Lily of the Valley Plant: Features and Growing Tips

Convallaria majalis thrives in part to full shade and prefers well-drained, moist soils enriched with organic matter. Known for its resilience, the lily of the valley plant is a perfect solution for challenging garden spaces that receive little sunlight. Once established, it can form dense colonies, providing excellent ground cover and suppressing weeds. The plant’s exquisite scent is a highlight in spring, often filling the air around pathways or garden nooks.

Care is minimal—simply ensure soil doesn’t dry out during extended dry periods. After flowering, allow the foliage to die back naturally, supplying energy for next year’s blooms. Lily of the valley is also a charming addition to shaded pots and containers, especially when combined with other shade-loving perennials.

Landscape Uses for Lily of the Valley

Lily of the valley’s versatility lets you enjoy it in both formal and naturalistic settings. Line shaded garden paths with these enchanting plants, or allow them to naturalise beneath deciduous trees where other plants may struggle. Lily of the valley is also prized in cottage gardens for its nostalgic appeal and ability to thrive where other blooms might falter.

For extra colour in low-light gardens, consider pairing lily of the valley with trusted companions like Hosta Krossa Regal or the delicate, blue-tinted blooms of Campanula EH Frost. For a soft pink twist on tradition, the Convallaria majalis Rosea offers uniquely coloured blooms and the same easy-care habits.

Companion Plants for Shaded Appeal

Designing a shaded border? The lily of the valley plant combines beautifully with other reliable perennials. Pair with the bold foliage of Hosta Krossa Regal, the cloud-like clusters of Anisotome lyallii (Lyalls Carrot), or intersperse with striking blooms from Agapanthus Donau for a dynamic display. For colour in sunnier spots nearby, the radiant Arctotis 'Fireglow' (African Daisy) offers an eye-catching contrast to the tranquil clusters of lily of the valley.

Bring a touch of woodland magic and lasting fragrance to your garden with the lily of the valley plant—an enduring favourite for shaded, difficult spaces. Explore our wider collection of companion perennials to create your perfect woodland haven.


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Our garden favourites Sambucus nigra and Gardenia radicans get lots of love, but don’t miss out on a few lesser-known delights: Juniperus 'Skyrocket', Agonis flexuosa After Dark, and Mandarin 'Clementine'.
–The Plant Company

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