Small native perennial with nodding, very fragrant white bell-shaped flowers from May to June. It will grow in deep shade, but it produces more flowers if it is grown in dappled shade. It is extremely hardy, growing in the coldest regions. Lily of the Valley will be sent out as bare root rhizomes from mid-November to March, each with a bud forming.
More Information:
Other Names:
Fairy Cups, May Lilies
Distribution: It grows wild inEngland, parts ofWalesand scattered localities inScotland.
Habitat: It thrives in dry woodland and hedgerows on chalky soils. It is suitable for naturalising in woodland and shady areas of the garden.It is fine indeep shade, but you will get more flowers if it is grown in dappled shade. It is extremely hardy, growing in the coldest regions.
Description: Perennial. It is a short plant (15-20cm), with nodding, very fragrant white bell-shaped flowers from May to June.
Uses:
Lily of the Valley has long been cultivated in British gardens and an essential oil obtained from the flowers is still used in the manufacture of perfumes and soaps.Lily of the Valley can be useful for 'forcing' indoors during the winter months.
Wildlife:
Attractive to bees.
GrowingNotes:Lily of the Valley need moisture over the growing period to bloom and can be fussy about their location.Also, some years they just don't flower.
Planting Instructions for Rhizomes:Plant rhizomes laid horizontally and 3 cm deep.Ensure that the top of the shoots (or 'pips') are 3 cm below the surface.The rhizomes can be planted in autumn through to spring.
Plant the rhizomes as soon as possible upon receipt.
These rhizomes were grown inBritainfrom cultivated stock.
