The Lily of the Valley, or Convallaria majalis, is a fragrant, shade-loving perennial known for its delicate, bell-shaped flowers and lush green foliage. This groundcover is a classic choice for woodland gardens, providing a splash of white and a memorable scent in the spring. Understanding the various methods of acquisition and the forms in which it is sold will ensure a successful planting experience.
Methods for Acquiring Lily of the Valley
The choice of vendor depends on a gardener’s priorities, balancing factors such as price, convenience, and plant quality. Local, independent nurseries are excellent sources because they often provide plants adapted to the regional climate and soil conditions. Staff at these establishments can also offer personalized advice specific to your garden’s microclimate.
Large national garden centers and big-box stores offer convenience and lower initial prices due to bulk purchasing. However, these retailers may focus on seasonal availability, limiting the selection of Convallaria majalis to a brief window in the spring. Plants from these sources can sometimes show signs of stress from transport or inconsistent care, requiring closer inspection before purchase.
Specialized online retailers can offer the widest variety, especially if you are seeking a specific or rare cultivar. These suppliers often ship the plants in a dormant state, minimizing the risk of damage during transit. While buying online provides access to specialized stock, the primary drawback is the inability to visually inspect the plant’s health before it arrives.
Understanding the Forms of the Plant Available
Lily of the Valley is most commonly sold in three distinct physical states, each requiring a slightly different approach to planting. The most frequent and cost-effective option is the bare root division, often referred to as “pips.” These pips are dormant sections of the plant’s rhizome, containing a bud and a small root system. They should be planted in early spring or fall while the plant is not actively growing.
Potted plants provide the most immediate satisfaction, as they are actively growing and may even be in bloom at the time of purchase. These specimens can be successfully transplanted at any point during the growing season, provided the soil is not frozen and they are kept well-watered after transfer. The established root ball allows for a quick transition into the garden bed with minimal shock.
A third, less common method is starting the plant from seeds, which is the most difficult and time-consuming route. Seeds require cold stratification, a process that mimics winter to break dormancy. This method can take a year or more to produce a plant large enough for the garden and is typically reserved for those breeding varieties.
Essential Safety Information Regarding Toxicity
All parts of Convallaria majalis, including the flowers, leaves, red berries, and even the water in a vase, contain potent toxins. The primary toxic compounds are cardiac glycosides, a group of chemicals that includes convallatoxin, convalloside, and convallarin. These compounds are similar to those found in the heart medication digitalis.
The cardenolides act by interfering with the sodium-potassium pump (Na+/K+-ATPase) in the heart muscle cells, disrupting the normal electrical activity. Accidental ingestion, even of a small amount, can lead to severe symptoms in humans and pets. Signs of poisoning include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and a slowing or irregularity of the heart rate.
To ensure safety, wear gloves when handling the plant during planting or dividing to prevent potential skin irritation. Place the plant out of the reach of small children and household pets who might be tempted to chew on the foliage or consume the bright red berries. If ingestion is suspected, immediate contact with a poison control center or medical professional is necessary.