Michigan State University Extension
Ornamental Plants plus Version 3.0 - 00000401
11/12/99
Convallaria majalis--Lily-of-the-Valley
Hardiness Zones: 3 to 7
Height: 12 in Spread: 6 in
Type: herbaceous perennial
Flowers: White
Comments: Convallaria produces racemes of fragrant bell
shaped flowers (Vis. 1) in either white or very pale pink.
The flowers may be followed by scattered production of red
berries. The berries are poisonous. The plant (Vis. 2) may
be grown in sun or shade and can be used as a ground cover.
Convallaria prefers a rich, moist soil but tolerates some
dryness. A planting benefits from an October top dressing
consisting of compost, leaf mold or well rotted manure
plus a complete fertilizer. Once the plants are
established, leave them alone until they begin to
deteriorate from overcrowding. The plant may become
invasive and difficult to get rid of.
Propagation: Propagation is by rhizome division in late
September or October, or in early spring. Pips are large
buds on the end of the rhizomes and their tips should be
one inch below the soil surface.
Cultivars:
'Fortin's Giant' - The longer flower stems produces
larger flowers.
'Rosea' - Light pink flowers.
References for Cultivars: White Flower Farm 1999, Weston
Nurseries 1999, Wayside Gardens 1999.
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to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not
mentioned. This information becomes public property upon
publication and may be printed verbatim with credit to MSU
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a commercial product or company.
This file was generated from data base ZZ on 01/19/00.
Data base ZZ was last revised on 11/12/99.
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