How to Grow Lily of the Valley (Convallaria)

How to Grow Lily of the Valley (Convallaria)

Looking for an effortless bloomer for shady spots? Lily of the valley is perfect.

Lily of the valley thrives in shade, making it ideal for shade gardens. Native to Asia, Europe, and North America, it creates excellent ground cover on north sides of buildings.

Plants grow 6 inches high and bloom in late spring. Most varieties are white; less common are rose or pink. Bell-shaped flowers produce a strong, pleasant fragrance.

Tip: Try forcing blooms indoors in winter. See How to Force Blooms Indoors.
Did You Know? Popular in wedding bouquets when in season.

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Plant Propagation

Lily of the valley propagates from seed or rhizomes. Seeds take months to germinate, so most use rhizomes.

Dig up rhizomes of established plants in fall and separate into clumps for replanting.

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How to Grow Lily of the Valley Plants

Very easy to grow. Prefers partial shade. Tolerates poor soils but grows better with fertilization in early spring and after blooms fade.

Space plants about 12 inches apart—they'll spread to fill gaps over time.

Plants like moist soil. Water during dry weather.

Divide in fall after a few years: dig up rhizomes, separate with a sharp knife ensuring each segment has at least one "eye," and replant 12 inches apart.

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Insects and Disease

Few insect or disease problems with convallaria.

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