Lily of the valley is a dainty woodland plant whose arching stems are hung with tiny, intensely fragrant white bells. A symbol of sweetness and renewal, it’s the birth flower of May and a treasured wedding flower.
Lily of the Valley at a glance
- Botanical name: Convallaria majalis
- Family: Asparagaceae
- Bloom season: late spring
- Symbolism: sweetness, humility, and the return of happiness
About the lily of the valley
Lily of the valley spreads by underground rhizomes to form a fragrant carpet of nodding white (occasionally pink) bells above broad green leaves. Its perfume is famous and much-used, though the entire plant is highly poisonous if eaten. It can spread vigorously in the right conditions.
Lily of the Valley meaning and symbolism
Lily of the valley symbolizes sweetness, humility, and the return of happiness, and is closely tied to motherhood. It’s May’s birth flower, and in France sprigs are given for luck on May 1.
Types of lily of the valley
Popular varieties worth knowing:
- Common white — the classic fragrant bells
- ‘Rosea’ — a soft pink-flowered form
- Variegated — leaves striped with cream
- ‘Bordeaux’ — larger flowers on taller stems
How to grow and care for lily of the valley
A few essentials keep this flower thriving:
- Grow in partial to full shade with moist, rich soil
- Plant the rhizomes (‘pips’) in autumn
- Let it spread to form a fragrant groundcover
- Water during dry spells
- Note: all parts are highly toxic, so keep away from children and pets
Lily of the Valley FAQs
Is lily of the valley poisonous?
Yes, very. All parts of lily of the valley are highly toxic if eaten, so it should be kept well away from children and pets.
Does lily of the valley spread?
Yes. It spreads by underground rhizomes to form dense colonies and can be vigorous, so give it room or plant it where it can naturalize freely.
When does lily of the valley bloom?
Lily of the valley blooms in late spring, filling shady gardens with its small white bells and unmistakable sweet fragrance for a few weeks.
Explore more
Browse more flower profiles, learn about flower meanings, or find your birth flower.