Convallaria majalis (Lily of the valley)

Is it a bulb? Is it a bare root? Is it a tuber? No, it's super...pips! That's right, when it comes to Lily of the Valley, we're not talking about your average garden variety, but the mighty pips! (they still look like a bare root plant to us!) These little powerhouses are the unsung heroes behind those enchanting bell-shaped blooms. Get ready to unleash the magic of pips in your garden!

This delightful perennial heralds the early days of summer, with its slender stems adorned with dainty bell-shaped white blooms, each exuding a delicate, sweet fragrance. The appearance of its abundant flowers is often seen as a sign of returning happiness, bringing a serene joy to any garden setting.

Lily-of-the-Valley thrives in shaded areas, making it an ideal choice for those challenging spots in your garden where other plants may struggle to flourish. Its compact size belies the impact it has when in full bloom, creating a carpet of white that seems to embody the very essence of spring's purity.

While its beauty and scent are undeniable, it's important to handle this plant with care, as all parts of Convallaria majalis are known to contain toxic compounds. Historically, it has been used in medicinal preparations, but only under expert guidance due to its potent nature.

Easy to grow and low maintenance, Lily-of-the-Valley is a charming addition to any UK garden, offering a touch of elegance and a whisper of woodland mystery. Whether planted in borders, under trees, or in shaded corners, this plant will spread its joyous blooms, inviting tranquility and grace into your outdoor space.

Growing Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis) in the UK is a delightful way to infuse your garden with charm and fragrance. Here are some essential tips for cultivating these enchanting plants:

- Soaking: Before planting, immerse your Convallaria majalis roots in water for a duration of 3 to 6 hours.

- Shade Affinity: Preferring dappled shade, Lily of the Valley is ideal for woodland gardens or areas under partial canopy.

- Soil Preferences: Flourishes in moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic material. Enhance soil quality by mixing in compost or leaf mould.

- Planting Depth and Spacing: Plant the pips (rootstocks) approximately 3-4 cm deep and 10-15 cm apart, ensuring the roots are spread out and directed downwards.

- Irrigation: Maintain consistent soil moisture, particularly during periods of low rainfall.

- Growth Management: While low in maintenance, be mindful of its propensity to spread; containment measures may be necessary.

- Post-Bloom Care: Allow the foliage to remain post-flowering to enable energy storage for the subsequent year's blooms. The foliage will naturally recede in time.

- Safety Note: All parts of the plant are toxic upon ingestion, so exercise caution, especially in environments with children and pets.

Once settled, Lily of the Valley requires minimal upkeep and will grace your garden with its aromatic blossoms each spring.

Learn how to grow Lily of the valley 

• Botanical name: Convallaria majalis
• Established height: 20-30cm
• Established spread: 10-20cm
• Plant spacing 100 plants per m2
• Life cycle: Perennial Naturalising
• Hardiness: Fully hardy
• Sunlight: Partial shade, full shade and dappled shade
• Scented: Yes
• Pollinator-friendly: Yes
• Toxicity: Skin/eyes irritant and toxic if eaten
• Ships as 'pips'
• Dispatch in spring (end of March/April)