Convallaria keiskei (Asian Lily of the Valley)

Scientific Name

Convallaria keiskei Miq.

Common Names

Lily of the Valley, Asian Lily of the Valley, Japanese Lily of the Valley

Synonyms

Convallaria japonica, Convallaria majalis var. keiskei, Convallaria manschurica

Scientific Classification

Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Nolinoideae
Genus: Convallaria

Flower

Color: White
Bloom Time: Late spring

Description

Convallaria keiskei is a rhizomatous perennial, up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall, that forms extensive colonies. Leaves are broad, green, and up to 10 inches (25 cm) long. The slightly arching stems of white flowers are followed by showy orange berries. Flowering is in late spring.

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zone 3a to 7b: from −40 °F (−40 °C) to 10 °F (−12.2 °C).

How to Grow and Care

Despite its temperamental reputation, Lily of the Valley is easy to grow if you buy it ready potted in spring. Dried crowns take ages to get going and do not always survive, and it may also prove difficult to establish chunks supplied by friends. In both cases, pot up the crowns separately in a loam-based compost, water well, and allow them to establish for a year before planting out. (You can do the same in midwinter, forcing the crowns for an early show indoors.)

At planting time, work in some humus, good garden compost, or, even better, leafmould. Spread out any underground stems and cover with just a couple of inches of the planting mixture. Mulch well with leafmould. If you find that flowering is poor, an occasional dose of high-potash organic liquid feed may help. See more at How to Grow and Care for Lily of the Valley.

Origin

Native to Japan, China, and Russia.

Links

• Back to genus Convallaria
• Plantopedia: Browse flowering plants by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, or Origin

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