The lily of the valley is a beloved spring flower known for its exquisitely fragrant, nodding white bell-shaped blooms. But did you know there’s also a pink variety of this charming perennial? Let’s take a closer look at the lovely pink lily of the valley plant.
Overview of Pink Lily of the Valley
While the classic Convallaria majalis produces white blooms, there is a less common variety called Convallaria majalis var rosea that bears soft pink flowers Its foliage and growth habit are the same as the species, forming lush green carpets of oval leaves. The pink bells emerge in spring producing a beautiful floral display and intoxicating scent.
Also known as rose lily of the valley or pink convallaria, this variety has pale to light pink bell-shaped blooms on arching 8-12 inch stems The flowers have a delicate, elegant look with their scalloped edges and nodding presentation While the blooms are fleeting, the fragrance is powerful and carries on the breeze.
Growing Conditions
Like the standard white variety, pink lily of the valley thrives in shade and spreads readily to form a carefree groundcover. Dappled light under trees is ideal. It flourishes in zones 2-8 and appreciates moist, humus-rich soil. Once established, it tolerates drier conditions. Good drainage is essential.
Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for spreading. It will tolerate partial sun in cooler climates but requires afternoon shade in hotter zones. The pink color is strongest in areas with some sunlight. Too much sun can fade the blooms and cause foliage burn.
Planting and Care
Pink lily of the valley is sold as bare root crowns. Plant in early spring, setting the roots 1-2 inches deep and 4-6 inches apart. Water well after planting and provide shade until new growth emerges. Keep the soil moist but not saturated for the first season.
These perennials require little care once established. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage growth and flowering. Avoid high nitrogen formulas which promote foliage over blooms.
Remove spent flowers to prevent self-seeding. After bloom time, cut back the flower stems but allow the foliage to remain until it yellows in late summer. This helps the plants store energy for next year’s blooms.
Propagation and Problems
Propagate established plants by dividing the rhizomatous roots in fall. Replant the divisions 12 inches apart. You can also grow new plants from cuttings or berry segments after flowering.
Pink lily of the valley is relatively pest and disease free. Provide good air circulation and avoid wet foliage to prevent issues with leaf spots or powdery mildew. Root rot can occur in overly moist soils.
Using Pink Lily of the Valley in the Garden
With its subtle pink coloration and intoxicating fragrance, this variety adds delightful spring charm to shady plantings. It works beautifully as a groundcover and also mixes well with ferns, hostas, hellebores, and other shade lovers.
Allow it to carpet open areas or plant it as an attractive edging. combining it with white lily of the valley makes for a striking color contrast. Plant it near patios, windows, and walkways where its scent can be enjoyed.
Containers also show off pink lily of the valley wonderfully. Pair it with other shade plants like begonias, ivy, and coleus. And don’t forget to bring a few cut stems indoors for a touch of floral perfume inside.
Where to Buy Pink Lily of the Valley
Pink lily of the valley is harder to find than the white species but available from some specialty nurseries and online sites that offer unique perennials. Make sure to purchase from a reputable grower.
Since it emerges late, pink lily of the valley is often sold as dormant bare roots in spring. Plant the roots immediately after receiving and water well. You may also find containerized plants available later in the growing season.
Enjoy This Beautiful Variation
With its blushing pink bells and intoxicating scent, the pink lily of the valley brings an extra dash of spring romance to the shade garden. Give this beauty a try if you crave something just a little different from the familiar white form. It’s sure to enchant you!
When to Plant Lily of the Valley
- Plant in the spring or fall.
Planting, Growing, and Caring for Lily of the Valley
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Lily of the Valley—as known as May Bells, Mary’s Tears, and Our Lady’s Tears—is a woodland plant with attractive green foliage and tiny, bell-shaped, white or pink flowers. Learn how to plant, grow, and care for the lily of the valley in your garden!
How to Plant Lily of the Valley: Spring Garden Guide
FAQ
Is Pink lily of the valley invasive?
The lily of the valley plant has escaped cultivation and has been placed on invasive plant lists in some states, primarily for its tendency to form large colonies that threaten native plants.
Where is the best place to plant lily of the valley?
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Sunlight:Lily of the valley prefers light to moderate shade, tolerating full shade as well.
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Soil:It needs moist but well-drained soil, slightly acidic to neutral in pH.
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Location:
- Under trees or shrubs
- Against the foundation of a building
- Around a water feature
- On steep banks or uneven terrain
- In shady areas where few other plants grow
- Under trees or shrubs
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Planting:
- Plant in early spring
- Plant pips (bulbous roots) with the tops barely poking above the soil surface, about 4″ apart.
- Snip the last inch off the roots before planting to encourage moisture uptake.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
- Plant in early spring
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Maintenance:
- Provide supplemental water as needed, especially during dry periods.
- Mulch to help retain moisture and keep the soil cool.
- Remove spent blooms to encourage continued flowering.
- Divide clumps in the fall to propagate.
- Provide supplemental water as needed, especially during dry periods.
Are pink lily of the valley rare?
A rare variety. Easy to grow in average soil. Makes an excellent ground cover for the shade garden.
Is there a pink lily of the valley?
Convallaria majalis. A classic cottage garden gem. Perfectly bell-shaped pendant flowers in soft baby-pink have one of the sweetest perfumes imaginable.
Is Lily of the valley a good ground cover?
Lily of the valley is a natural choice where you want an easy-care ground cover for a shady area, and if you live in a region with relatively mild, cool summers. The flower spikes make good additions to cut-flower arrangements, so they are often grown in shady cutting gardens. How long does lily of the valley live?
Which lilies have rosy pink flowers?
In addition to the typical lily of the valley species found in gardens, there are several named cultivars available, including: C. majalis ‘Rosea’ bears rosy pink flowers. C. majalis ‘Fortin’s Giant’ has larger flowers than the typical lily of the valley. C. majalis ‘Flore Pleno’ is valued for its double flowers.
Is Lily of the valley poisonous?
Lily of the valley is toxic to humans and pets. Lily of the valley is a shade-loving plant that should be planted in a location where the soil is naturally moist and slightly acidic to neutral. Most gardeners plant it under trees where it will fill the space over time.
Is pink lily of the valley a perennial?
With its delicate pink bell flowers and sweet fragrance, pink lily of the valley is a delightful old-fashioned perennial. This shade-loving plant thrives as a carefree groundcover and also works nicely in containers. Read on for tips on growing and caring for pink lily of the valley in your garden.
What does a pink lily of the valley look like?
Pink lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis var. rosea) offers all the charms of the classic white variety but with a soft baby pink color. It emerges early in spring producing nodding bell-shaped blooms along thin arching stems. The flowers have a lovely, gentle fragrance. While the blooms are short-lived, the foliage persists into late summer.
How do you grow pink lily of the valley?
It grows well in woodlands, along patios and walkways, tucked under shrubs and in rock gardens. It also works nicely in container gardens. Pink lily of the valley is sold as dormant bare root plants. To plant, dig a hole no deeper than the root mass and set the crown just below soil level.