5 Lily of the Valley Bulbs – Convallaria majalis
Few plants evoke the magic of a woodland spring like Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis). Delicate, nodding white bells dangle from arching stems above broad, glossy leaves, releasing one of the most beloved fragrances in the garden world. A true perennial classic, it naturalizes effortlessly in shaded spots, returning each spring with increasing abundance and spreading into a lush, low-maintenance groundcover.
Why Gardeners Love Lily of the Valley
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Enchanting Fragrance: One of the most iconic floral scents — sweet, fresh, and unmistakably spring.
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Thrives in Shade: One of the few flowering perennials that performs beautifully in partial to full shade.
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Deer-Resistant: Naturally avoided by deer, making it reliable in gardens with wildlife pressure.
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Cold-Hardy: Extremely tough — reliable in USDA Zones 3–9, tolerating harsh winters with ease.
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Naturalizes Over Time: Spreads gently each year to form a dense, weed-suppressing groundcover.
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Low Maintenance: Once established, requires minimal care — just let it do its thing.
Plant Details
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Latin Name: Convallaria majalis
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Type: Hardy perennial bulb (pips/rhizomes)
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Height: 6–12 inches
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Bloom Season: Late spring to early summer
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Bloom Color: White
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Light: Partial to full shade
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USDA Zones: 3–9
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Deer Resistant: Yes
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Best Planted: Fall (for spring blooms)
Planting & Care Guide
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Planting: Plant bulbs (pips) 1–2 inches deep, 4–6 inches apart, in well-draining, fertile soil. Choose a shaded or partially shaded location to mimic their natural woodland habitat.
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Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Once established, they are relatively drought-tolerant and low-maintenance.
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Maintenance: Allow foliage to die back naturally after blooming — this nourishes the bulbs for the following season. Divide every few years to prevent overcrowding and maintain vigor.
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Propagation: Easily propagated by division in autumn — a great way to expand your planting or share with fellow gardeners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Lily of the Valley spread in my garden?
Yes — it spreads gradually via rhizomes, forming a beautiful, dense groundcover over time. It is easy to manage and not considered invasive in most regions.
Can I grow it in full shade?
Absolutely. Lily of the Valley is one of the best flowering perennials for full shade. It also tolerates partial shade well, making it very versatile.
When will it bloom after planting?
Bulbs planted in fall will typically bloom the following late spring. Established plants bloom reliably each year from April through June.
Is Lily of the Valley toxic?
Yes — all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested by humans or pets. Plant with care in gardens frequented by children or animals, and handle with gloves.
How many bulbs are included?
Each pack contains 5 Lily of the Valley bulbs (pips), ready to plant and naturalize in your garden.
