Scientific Name
Convallaria montana Raf.
Common Name(s)
American Lily of the Valley
Synonym(s)
Convallaria majalis var. montana, Convallaria majalis subsp. majuscula, Convallaria majalis var. majuscula, Convallaria majuscula, Convallaria parviflora
Scientific Classification
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Nolinoideae
Genus: Convallaria
Flower
Color: White
Bloom Time: Late spring
Description
Convallaria montana is a rhizomatous perennial that grows up to 10 inches (25 cm) tall. It is similar to but should not be confused with the commonly found Eurasian species Convallaria majalis. Their characteristics are very similar, and they can be difficult to differentiate. However, the native species is arguably more graceful, with large arching flowering stems. The sweetly fragrant, bell-shaped flowers are usually ivory-white, sometimes tinged with pink. These give way to showy, reddish berry-like fruit.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 4a to 8b: from −30 °F (−34.4 °C) to 20 °F (−6.7 °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 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
This species is native to the United States.
Links
- Back to genus Convallaria
- Plantpedia: Browse flowering plants by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, or Origin
Photo Gallery
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