Garden Flowers: The exquisitely scented lily of the valley…

0 Written by Lisa on 13th May 2013 in Garden Flowers, Plants

This month’s Garden Flowers post, which I write with Rona Wheeldon of Flowerona, features the lily of the valley.

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Renowned for the wonderful scent of its white bell-shaped flowers, the plant blooms in our gardens in May and June. The flowers are then followed by red berries in the autumn.

Convallaria majalis is its Latin name. There is a variegated form called Convallaria majalis ‘Albostriata’ with striped creamy gold leaves.

There’s also a variety which has white flowers flushed with pink called Convallaria majalis var. rosea.

Lily of the Valley (pink) by Thomson & Morgan

This fully hardy perennial flourishes in partial or complete shade in fertile, moist soil.

And it’s an excellent groundcover plant as it spreads to form a fragrant carpet of flowers and long, dark green leaves.

Lily of the Valley Flickr image by peganum

Be aware that lily of the valley prefers not to be moved once it’s got going. So it’s best to plant it and leave it alone.

Lily of the Valley Flickr image by kalexanderson

Just over two years ago, this delicate bloom took centre stage at the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

And due to its popularity as a wedding flower, it’s now generally available all year round at flower markets…although it can be a little pricey out of season.

Lily of the Valley Flickr image by Mwri

So, if you’re looking to add a little fragrance to your garden in a shady area, why not consider introducing this beautiful plant?

P.S. Please be aware that lily of the valley is highly poisonous if ingested so  it’s not ideal for planting in your garden if you have small children.

 

(Images : Flickr/ptrixThompson & MorganFlickr/peganum,Flickr/KalexandersonFlickr/mwri)

 

 

 

 

 

Original content source: Garden Flowers: The exquisitely scented lily of the valley…

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Lisa Cox Welcome

I specialise in helping families to turn their gardens into an extension of their home and into a space that can be used and enjoyed all year round.

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