Lily Of The Valley

Lily Of The Valley In NZ

Lily of the Valley belongs to the lily family and is renowned for its lovely bell-shaped white flowers. These blooms, which dangle gracefully from slender stems, are not only visually appealing but also emit a sweet and intoxicating scent. Despite its name, Lily of the Valley is not a true lily but shares some similarities with its namesake. These articles explore this amazing plant and how you can grow Lily of the Valley In NZ.

Can You Grow Lily Of The Valley In New Zealand?

Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis) grows well in New Zealand. They prefer a partial shade or full shade position with a well-drained, moist soil. Moreover, they can be grown in all regions of NZ and you can find Lily of the Valley plants available for purchase now! These amazing gems will bring fragrance and beauty to your New Zealand.

Growing Lily Of The Valley

Lily of the Valley thrives in cool, shaded areas with well-drained soil. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH and can be planted in early spring or autumn. The plant is hardy and can tolerate a variety of climates, making it a versatile addition to gardens worldwide.

When selecting a location for your Lily of the Valley, choose a spot that receives partial to full shade. This will help protect the delicate flowers from harsh sunlight, which can cause them to wilt and lose their fragrance. Similarly, a full sun position can cause leaf scorching.

It is essential that the soil is free-draining. If Lily of the Valley plants are exposed to prolonged periods of wetness the bulbs can rot. At the same time, the soil cannot be allowed to dry out as these plants prefer soils that are consistently moist.

Planting and Maintenance

To plant Lily of the Valley, begin by preparing the soil. Loosen it to a depth of about 15 cm and mix in some organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve fertility and soil health.

Plant the bulbs about 5 cm deep and 15-20 cm apart. Potted Lily of the Valley plants will be planted to the depth of the potting media and spaced similarly. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells, and remove any weeds. A light application of garden fertiliser in spring will keep the plants fed and growing strong.

Dealing With Pests and Diseases

While Lily of the Valley is generally resistant to pests and diseases, it can occasionally fall prey to issues such as root rot or fungal infections. To minimize these risks, ensure proper drainage and avoid overcrowding the plants. If you notice any signs of disease, such as discoloured leaves or stunted growth, remove the affected plants and treat the area with a fungicide if necessary. Otherwise, ensuring good air flow around the plants along with good drainage should result in few issues.

Is Smelling Lily Of The Valley Poisonous?

The fragrance from Lily of the Valley is not poisonous. The toxins are in the plant itself, and are not released into the air. Thus, the sweet fragrance of lily of the valley can be enjoyed and is often used in perfumes and other scented products.

Lily Of The Valley Symbolism and Cultural Significance

Lily of the Valley holds a special place in various cultures and traditions. In many societies, it is associated with purity, humility, and renewal. This symbolism is reflected in its use in weddings, where it is often included in bridal bouquets to represent the purity of love.

In France, May 1st is celebrated as "La Fête du Muguet" or Lily of the Valley Day. On this day, people give small bouquets of these flowers to friends and loved ones as a token of good luck and happiness. The tradition dates back to the early 20th century and continues to be a beloved custom.

Historical Uses and Folklore

Throughout history, Lily of the Valley has been cherished for more than just its beauty. It was once believed to have medicinal properties and was used in various folk remedies. In medieval times, it was thought to improve memory and strengthen the heart. However, it is important to note that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, so caution is advised.

According to folklore, the flower is said to have sprung from the ground where the tears of the Virgin Mary fell at the crucifixion of Jesus. This association with tears and sorrow has also led to its use in funeral arrangements as a symbol of the soul's return to purity and peace.

Cultivating Lily Of The Valley in Your Garden

Growing Lily of the Valley can be a rewarding experience, as it adds elegance and charm to any garden. Here are some tips to help you successfully cultivate this enchanting plant.

The Versatility of Lily Of The Valley

Beyond its use in gardens, Lily of the Valley is a popular choice for floral arrangements and perfumery. Its delicate blooms and sweet scent make it a favourite among florists and landscape designers.

Floral Arrangements and Bouquets

• Lily of the Valley is often used in bridal bouquets, boutonnieres, and centrepieces due to its elegant appearance and symbolism. Its small, white flowers complement a wide range of other blooms and foliage, making it a versatile choice for various styles and themes.
• When arranging Lily of the Valley, handle the stems with care, as they are delicate and can break easily. To extend the life of the flowers, place them in clean water and keep them in a cool location away from direct sunlight.

Perfume Industry

• The enchanting fragrance of Lily of the Valley has been captured and cherished in the perfume industry for centuries. Its scent is often described as fresh, sweet, and floral, with a hint of green. Perfumers have long sought to replicate its aroma in fragrances, as the flowers themselves do not produce a usable essential oil.
• Some of the world's most famous perfumes feature notes of Lily of the Valley, adding a touch of elegance and freshness to the composition. Its timeless appeal continues to captivate those who appreciate the beauty of nature's fragrances.

What Do I Do With Lily Of The Valley After Flowering?

After your Lily of the Valley has finished flowering, the focus shifts to ensuring the plant has the resources it needs for future growth. Therefore:

• Leave the Foliage: Do not cut back the leaves. They are essential for photosynthesis, which allows the plant to store energy in its roots for next year's flowers.
• Maintain Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods.
• Consider Compost and additional fertiliser: An annual application of organic compost in the autumn can provide valuable nutrients. If your soil is poor, a light application of garden fertilizer will also help support healthy growth.
• Division (Optional): If the plants become overcrowded, you can divide the plant in autumn to rejuvenate the plants and prevent them from becoming too congested.

Essentially, the key is to allow the foliage to die back naturally, providing the plant with the means to replenish its energy reserves.

What Time Of Year Can You Get Lily Of The Valley?

The Plant Company generally has Lily Of The Valley available year-round. If not, use contact us and we’ll be sure to help!

Where Is The Best Place To Plant Lily Of The Valley?

Lily Of The Valley plants thrive when given the right conditions. They prefer dappled sunlight or cool shade during the hottest parts of the day. Direct sun can scorch the leaves and inhibit flowering. Well-drained soil that is consistently moist soil is essential. They thrive in areas that receive regular rain or have access to additional watering. Heavy clay soils or poorly draining areas can lead to root rot, however, and should be avoided. Wind protection is essential, so avoid any exposed positions.