Lily of the Valley
Dark green leaves form a dense mat close to the soil, from which arching stems support small bell-shaped flowers, which are most commonly white or occasionally pink. With a heady, strong fragrance, the Lily of the Valley is popular not only for its scent but also for its ground-covering, spreading properties in shady conditions. It also produces small berries, which tend to be red or orange.
Lily of the Valley is native to the northern hemisphere and certain varieties can be found in countries such as America, China, and Japan. It likes a sheltered, moist habitat in either full or partial shade.
Convallaria majalis is sold in the spring as cut flowers and as a small potted plant. It can be planted from January to December and usually flowers between June and September. The seeds can be sown in containers or trays in a cold frame or greenhouse. Lily of the Valley can also be propagated by dividing mature plants in the autumn.
Belonging to the Asparagaceae family and the Nolinoideae subfamily, this hardy plant has a rhizomatous root system, sending out horizontal shoots from its nodes.
In the Victorian classic, The Language of Flowers, the Lily of the Valley is said to symbolize the return of happiness. Named for its native habitat (the Latin word "Corvallis" means enclosed valley), our Lily of the Valley is harvested along the beautiful coastline of Santa Barbara, California.
Though lily of the valley bears dozens of blossoms, it can only last for less than a week. With bell-shaped flowers that infuse the air with fragrance throughout the day, it is the perfect addition to your bedside table or bathroom counter.
