Information courtesy of Magna Vista High School students

 

 

 

 

Lily of the valley is classified as a Convallaria majlis, and is also a herbaceous perennial. Lily of the valley is in the asparagus family. It has 12 waxy white flowers that look like bells. It normally blooms in May. Onion and garlic are also in the asparagus family.  When the plant blooms you may see some green berrys around it. The leaves of lily of the valley are upright and glossy green. The plant can reach a length of 6 to 9 Inches. It has a width of around 4 inches.

 

Lily of the valley can be grown in planting zones 2 to 9. The plant likes well shaded-areas with drained loamy soil enriched with hummus. This plant loves moist cool conditions. Lily of the valley may seem harmless, however be careful because it contains a residue which is very harmful to humans. Wear gloves when handling this plant.

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It is a native plant. Lily of the valley is not endangered. Lilly of the valley reproduces underground. Insects will avoid it because it is poisonous. Even though it is poisonous, it is often used for heart medicine and medicine for labor pains. Lily of the valley is also mentioned in many Christian stories. It is said that lilly of the valley comes from the tears of Mary.  

 

David Beaulieu, Lily Of The Valley Flowers, The Spruce     7/22/17 

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https://www.thespruce.com/lily-of-the-valley-2132623

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Matt Soniak, How Poisonous Is Lily of the Valley?, Mental Floss  10/11/11