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Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis)

IMPORTANT TOXICITY WARNING:

All parts of this plant are highly toxic to humans and animals. Even water from cut flowers can be poisonous. This plant can be lethal if ingested.

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Common Names of Lily of the Valley:
 

Lily of the Valley, Mary's Tears, May Bells, Our Lady's Tears, May Lily, Convall Lily, Jacob's Tears, Ladder to Heaven
 

Identification of Lily of the Valley:
 

Leaves:

  • 2-3 basal, elliptic leaves per stem

  • 10-15cm long

  • Glossy, bright green

  • Parallel veined

  • Emerge in pairs from protective sheaths
     

Stems:

  • Flowering stems 15-30cm tall

  • Slender, leafless flower stalks

  • Angular in cross-section

  • Typically one per plant
     

Flowers:

  • Pure white, bell-shaped

  • 5-15 flowers per stem

  • Sweet, strong fragrance

  • 6 reflexed tepals

  • Bloom May-June

  • Each flower 5-8mm long
     

Berries:

  • Initially green

  • Mature to red-orange

  • 6-10mm diameter

  • Appear late summer/autumn

  • Highly poisonous
     

Roots:

  • Extensive rhizome system

  • White, slender roots

  • Forms dense colonies

  • Spreads aggressively in ideal conditions
     

Growth Pattern of Lily of the Valley:
 

Height: 15-30cm Spread: Forms extensive colonies through rhizomes Growth Rate: Rapid in suitable conditions
 

Habitat of Lily of the Valley:
 

  • Deciduous woodlands

  • Shaded gardens

  • Churchyards

  • Old estate gardens

  • Woodland edges

  • North-facing slopes

  • Can persist in abandoned gardens
     

Seasonal Changes of Lily of the Valley:
 

Spring:

  • Leaves emerge March-April

  • Flowering May-June

  • Strong fragrance period
     

Summer:

  • Full leaf development

  • Berry formation begins

  • Colony expansion


Autumn:

  • Berries ripen to orange-red

  • Leaves begin yellowing

  • Rhizome growth active


Winter:

  • Dies back completely

  • Survives underground via rhizomes

  • Dormant period
     

UK Distribution of Lily of the Valley:
 

  • Widespread in gardens

  • Naturalised in woodlands

  • Common in southern England

  • Less frequent in northern Scotland

  • Often found near historic buildings
     

Wildlife Interactions of Lily of the Valley:
 

  • Toxic to most wildlife

  • Some birds eat berries without harm

  • Provides ground cover for small animals

  • Avoided by deer and rabbits

  • Toxic to domestic pets
     

Garden Cultivation of Lily of the Valley:
 

  • Prefers partial to full shade

  • Well-draining, humus-rich soil

  • pH preference: slightly acidic to neutral

  • Requires consistent moisture

  • Can become invasive

  • Best contained in barriers

  • Ideal for woodland gardens
     

Is It OK to Touch Lily of the Valley?

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Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis) is a beautiful and fragrant plant often found in woodlands and gardens. However, it's important to handle this plant with caution due to its toxic properties.

 

Here's what you need to know about touching Lily of the Valley:

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Toxicity of Lily of the Valley:

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  • Skin Irritation: Contact with Lily of the Valley can cause skin irritation in some people. Symptoms may include redness, itching, or rash.

  • Eye Irritation: The plant's sap can cause irritation if it comes into contact with your eyes, potentially leading to symptoms such as redness, swelling, or a burning sensation.
     

Safety Precautions when handling Lily of the Valley:

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  • Wear Gloves: It’s advisable to wear gloves and long sleeves when handling Lily of the Valley to minimize skin contact.

  • Wash Hands: Even when wearing gloves, it's a good practice to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling the plant.

  • Avoid Touching Face or Eyes: Be cautious not to touch your face or eyes after handling the plant. If sap does get into your eyes, flush them immediately with clean water.
     

Symptoms and Treatment of Lily of the Valley Poisoning:

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  • Mild Reactions: Any irritation from touching Lily of the Valley is usually mild and temporary, often resolving within a few hours.

  • Sensitive Skin: Individuals with sensitive skin may experience more severe reactions. Washing the affected area with soap and water can help alleviate symptoms.

  • Seek Medical Attention: If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical advice. Severe reactions are uncommon but possible.

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Safety Notes for Lily of the Valley:
 

Toxicity:

  • Contains cardiac glycosides

  • All parts toxic, including:

    • Flowers

    • Leaves

    • Stems

    • Roots

    • Berries

    • Water from cut flowers

    • Even honey from flowers
       

Symptoms of Poisoning:

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

  • Dizziness

  • Heart rhythm abnormalities

  • Can be fatal
     

Handling:

  • Wear gloves

  • Wash hands after contact

  • Keep away from children

  • Keep pets away

  • Don't grow near edible plants
     

Legal Considerations of Lily of the Valley:

  • Common garden plant

  • No restrictions on cultivation

  • Wild collection may be restricted

  • Protected in some European countries
     

Additional Notes for Lily of the Valley:


Historical Use:

  • Traditional wedding flower

  • Symbol of purity

  • Victorian era favourite

  • Previously used medicinally (now discontinued due to dangers)


Cultivation Tips:

  • Plant in spring or autumn

  • Space pips 10cm apart

  • Divide clusters every 3-4 years

  • Control spread with barriers

  • Remove unwanted growth promptly


Warning Signs:

  • Keep clear signage if in public gardens

  • Mark areas where planted

  • Consider removing if children nearby

  • Monitor for unwanted spread

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