The Lily of the Valley, scientifically known as Convallaria majalis, is a perennial woodland plant recognized worldwide for its delicate appearance and intense fragrance. The flowers are predominantly a pure, bright white, which is the color found in the species native to Europe and Asia. This classic white form is the standard from which all other varieties deviate.
The Defining Appearance
The standard Convallaria majalis is characterized by its deep green foliage and distinct flower structure. Each plant typically produces two broad, elliptical leaves that emerge from the ground, creating a lush, dark green backdrop. The leaves are smooth and glossy, growing to a length of about five to eight inches.
The flowers emerge on a slender, slightly arching stem known as a raceme, which is often shorter than the leaves. Along this stem, six to twelve individual flowers hang in a one-sided arrangement. These blooms have a unique, waxy texture and are fused at the base to form a distinct, nodding, bell or cup shape.
The white Lily of the Valley is known for its powerful, sweet scent, which is concentrated in the small, white tepals. This signature fragrance is highly recognizable, making the plant a popular choice for cut flowers and a common component in high-end perfumes. The entire flowering process occurs in late spring, typically lasting for about three weeks.
Color Variations and Cultivars
While the iconic form of the plant is white, selective cultivation has introduced a few rare color variations. The most notable exception is the cultivar Convallaria majalis ‘Rosea’, which produces blooms that are a soft, pale pink, sometimes described as a blush or mauve-pink.
These pink flowers maintain the same bell shape and the characteristic sweet fragrance of their white counterpart. Other cultivated forms exist that focus on different traits, such as Convallaria majalis ‘Flore Pleno’, which features double-layered white blooms, or varieties with variegated foliage.
These non-white or altered forms are specialized selections and are not the natural appearance of the wild species. The vast majority of lily of the valley plants encountered in gardens and in the wild will display the traditional pure white flowers.
Important Safety Considerations
Despite its beautiful appearance and appealing fragrance, the Lily of the Valley possesses significant toxicity. All parts of the plant, including the flowers, leaves, stems, roots, and the small red berries that follow the blooms, contain poisonous compounds. These toxins are a group of substances called cardiac glycosides, with convallatoxin being one of the main components.
These compounds have a powerful effect on the heart, similar to the drug digoxin, and ingestion can lead to severe poisoning. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, a slow or irregular heartbeat, and potentially cardiac arrest. The plant poses a particular risk to children and pets who might be tempted to chew on the leaves or eat the bright red berries.
Even the water in a vase holding cut Lily of the Valley stems can accumulate enough toxic glycosides to be dangerous if consumed. It is advisable to wear gloves when handling the plant and to ensure that all parts are kept away from children and household animals. If any part of the plant is ingested, immediate medical attention is necessary.