Maianthemum bifolium (False Lily of the Valley)

Maianthemum bifolium (False Lily of the Valley) is a spreading herbaceous perennial with pairs of large, glossy, dark green, heart-shaped leaves, 3 in. long (8 cm), arising directly from rhizomes. In late spring to early summer, sprays of 15-20 star-shaped white flowers are held just above the foliage.

Maianthemum bifolium (False Lily of the Valley) is a spreading herbaceous perennial with pairs of large, glossy, dark green, heart-shaped leaves, 3 in. long (8 cm), arising directly from rhizomes. In late spring to early summer, sprays of 15-20 star-shaped white flowers are held just above the foliage. They give way to showy, ruby red berries in late summer. Spreading by underground roots, False Lily of the Valley is a magnificent ground-covering plant for woodland gardens.

  • Grows up 6-9 in. tall (15-22 cm) and 12-18 in. wide (30-45 cm). May spread aggressively where happy.
  • Performs best in part shade in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Rich, moist, humusy soils are preferred. Intolerant of heat and humidity.
  • Easy to grow, False Lily of the Valley is a welcomed addition to shady gardens, cottage gardens, woodland gardens, naturalized areas or in moist areas near streams or ponds. Most effective as a groundcover or underplanting shrubs and roses.
  • No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for slugs and snails.
  • Propagate by seed, sown in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe, or by division of rooted runners in spring.
  • Native to Eurasia, from Western Europe to Japan.

Requirements

Hardiness 3
– 7

Heat Zones 1
– 5

Climate Zones 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, A2, A3
Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Maianthemum – False Lily of the Valley
Exposure Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Late)Summer (Early)
Height 6"
– 9"
(15cm
– 22cm)
Spread 1'
– 2'
(30cm
– 60cm)
Spacing 18″ (45cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy, Fruit & Berries
Native Plants United Kingdom
Garden Uses Banks and Slopes, Ground Covers, Underplanting Roses and Shrubs
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow