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Lily of the valley plants produces a delicate, fragrant flower that is unmistakable and a great addition to the garden (provided you manage to keep their spread in check). What kind of selection is out there? There’s a lot more to lily of the valley than just its sweet scent. Keep reading to learn more about the different lily of the valley plant types.
The lily of the valley is a beloved shade garden classic, treasured for its gracefully nodding, bell-shaped blooms and sweet fragrance But did you know there’s a giant version that takes this garden favorite to the next level? Introducing the majestic giant lily of the valley
An Improved Classic
While the classic lily of the valley grows to about 6-8 inches tall the giant lily of the valley can reach up to 16 inches in height. It produces much larger blooms on taller sturdier stems compared to its smaller cousin. The giant lily of the valley has big, abundant blooms that give a spectacular floral display in spring.
The flowers of the giant lily of the valley are a pure ivory white. Each individual bloom nods gently on the upright stem, looking almost like a line of porcelain bells. And the heavenly fragrance is just as delightful as the original, filling the garden with its sweet perfume.
Ideal Conditions
Like all lilies of the valley, the giant form thrives in partial to full shade. It flourishes in moist, organic soil that is rich in humus. The giant lily of the valley appreciates consistent moisture, though established plants have some drought tolerance once their root systems are developed.
This perennial spreads readily, making it an excellent groundcover for shady areas It grows well under trees and alongside shrubs The giant lily of the valley can also be grown in containers, where it cascades gracefully over the edges.
Care and Maintenance
Caring for the giant lily of the valley is easy. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the plants to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Water during dry periods to keep the soil consistently damp but not waterlogged.
The giant lily of the valley benefits from an annual application of compost or organic fertilizer to nourish the soil. Divide congested clumps every 2-3 years in early spring to rejuvenate the plants. Prune off any damaged or diseased foliage as needed.
Pest problems are rare, but slugs and snails may chew the leaves. Good sanitation and removal of fallen debris reduces the likelihood of disease. Anthracnose, crown rot, and other fungal issues can occasionally occur in overly wet conditions.
Stunning Display
With its statuesque form and copious blooms, the giant lily of the valley makes a stunning display in any woodland garden. Partner it with ferns, hellebores, astilbe, and other shade lovers. It also combines beautifully with spring ephemerals like trilliums and Virginia bluebells.
For an unforgettable fragrant display, plant drifts of the giant lily of the valley as a flowering groundcover. The ivory bells will elegantly carpet shaded garden beds and release their sweet perfume. Mass several in a large container for a beautiful pop of spring color on a patio or deck.
Availability
The giant lily of the valley is available as bare root divisions planted in spring. Order from reputable online nurseries that promptly ship fresh, healthy bareroots. Choose plump roots and plant them at the correct depth, with the growth tip just below the soil surface. Water well after planting.
Some nurseries sell pre-planted containers of the giant lily of the valley. This allows you to install mature plants into your garden more quickly. Look for healthy green foliage and vigorous root growth when selecting potted plants.
A Majestic Garden Gem
With its tall stately form, abundant blooms, and wonderful fragrance, the giant lily of the valley is a majestic upgrade to the classic woodland flower. Plant the giant lily of the valley to create a breathtaking spring display in shady garden beds, borders, and containers. Its beautiful blooms and sweet scent will be a treasured highlight in any garden.
Common Types of Lily of the Valley
Common lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis) has dark green leaves, tops out at about 10 inches (25 cm.) in height, and produces small, extremely fragrant, white flowers. As long as it’s contained from taking over the garden, you can’t go wrong with this variety. There are, however, a large number of interesting cultivars that set themselves apart.
Other Kinds of Lily of the Valley Plants
Lily of the valley doesn’t necessarily mean white flowers anymore. There are many lily of the valley varieties that produce pink blooms. “Rosea” is a cultivar of the plant that has flowers with a pink tinge to them. The amount and depth of the pink can vary from specimen to specimen. Another way to introduce more color to your lily of the valley patch is to choose a variety with variegated leaves. “Albomarginata” has white edges, while “Albostriata” has white stripes that fade somewhat to green as the summer wears on. Yellow and bright light green striping can be found in varieties like “Aureovariegata,” “Hardwick Hall,” and “Crema da Mint.” “Fernwood’s Golden Slippers” emerges with all over yellow foliage that never quite fades to green. Some more interesting kinds of lily of the valley varieties are grown for their size. “Bordeaux” and “Flore Pleno” will grow to a foot (31 cm.) tall. “Fortin Giant” can reach all the way to 18 inches (46 cm.) in height. “Flore Pleno,” as well as being tall, produces large double flowers. “Dorien” also has larger than normal flowers.
How to Grow Lily-of-the-Valley Indoors – White Flower Farm
FAQ
What is the largest lily of the valley?
Some more interesting kinds of lily of the valley varieties are grown for their size. “Bordeaux” and “Flore Pleno” will grow to a foot (31 cm.) tall. “Fortin Giant” can reach all the way to 18 inches (46 cm.)
Is it OK to touch lily of the valley?
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Toxicity:Lily of the valley contains cardiac glycosides, which are gastrointestinal irritants and can be harmful or fatal if ingested.
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Symptoms of Poisoning:Ingestion can cause abdominal pain, blurred vision, reduced heart rate, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin rashes.
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Handling:While the plant is safe to handle, it’s recommended to wash your hands thoroughly after touching it.
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Keep Away from Children and Pets:Due to the plant’s toxicity, it’s important to keep it away from children and pets, especially because the berries are particularly attractive to children.
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Seek Medical Help:If someone ingests any part of the plant and appears to be seriously ill, seek medical advice immediately.
What flower looks like a giant lily of the valley?
The robust Leucojum aestivum ‘Gravetye Giant’ has much larger flowers than the species. It looks like a giant Lily-of-the-Valley.