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 |
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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 |