False lily of the valley
Maianthemum canadense · Asparagaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant false lily of the valley: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- May to June
- Adult size
- 4 to 12 inches tall
- Growth
- Slow to moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -22°F)
- Origin
- North America
- Soil type
- Acidic, humus-rich, moist
Care
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during spring and summer growth. Water regularly if there's prolonged drought. In winter, reduce watering since the plant goes dormant.
Light
Prefer partial shade to full shade for optimal development. This woodland plant handles full direct sun poorly, which can scorch its delicate foliage. A windprotected location is ideal.
Soil
Plant it in acidic to neutral soil, rich in organic matter and well-draining. Enrich the substrate with compost or leaf mold before planting to recreate its natural forest habitat.
Fertilizer
A moderate application of organic fertilizer in spring is more than enough. This groundcover plant isn't demanding and prefers naturally fertile soil. Avoid excess feeding, which would promote excessive leaf development.
Diseases and pests
This plant is generally very resistant to diseases. Watch for stagnant moisture that could cause root rot. Slugs and snails may damage young foliage in spring.
Did you know?
Canada mayflower is a subtle but strategic little plant: its tiny white flowers borne in delicate clusters attract pollinators deep in North American forests. Its scientific name "Maianthemum" means "May flowering" in reference to its spring blooming. In gardening, it's an excellent woodland groundcover that quickly forms beautiful dense mats in shaded areas.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Lily of the valleyConvallaria majalis
- Spiny-headed Mat-rushLomandra longifolia
- Siberian squillScilla siberica
- Century plantAgave americana
- Sea squillDrimia maritima
- Armenian grape hyacinthMuscari armeniacum
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.