Convallaria pseudomajalis Play pronunciation

American lily-of-the-valley is a herbaceous perennial wildflower native to the Southern Appalachians. It may be found in northern Virginia and West Virginia, and as far south as northern Georgia.  It is found throughout most of the mountain regions of North Carolina. Its native habitat includes mountain hardwood forests or rocky woodlands at elevations of about 3000 to 5000 feet, and it tends to prefer oak forests. It grows erect, 10 to 12 inches tall, with two broad, sword-like, deep green basal leaves that emerge from the stem, measuring 6 to 14 inches long. Clusters of 5 to 15 small, dangling, fragrant, white, bell-shaped flowers appear on a slender stalk, blooming from April to June. This plant is a member of the asparagus family (Asparagaceae). The genus name, Convallaria, is derived from the Latin word convallis, meaning valley. The specific epithet, pseudomajalis, is derived from two words, pseudo, meaning "false," and majalis, meaning "of May;" thus translating to "false May." This plant should not be confused with the aggressive spreader, Convallaria majalis, otherwise known as European lily-of-the-valley.

American lily-of-the-valley needs well-drained, acidic, and nutrient-poor soils and partial to full shade. It will do well under trees or in woodland areas. It is drought-tolerant once established. It grows and spreads by underground rhizomes and can form very small colonies. This plant's sweet-scented flowers attract insect pollinators. 

American lily-of-the-valley is very similar to European lily-of-the-valley. The main difference is that this plant has larger, longer leaves, and it does not grow in dense colonies. 

This plant is rarely available commercially. In some states, this native wildflower has been threatened by logging and land development. It is important to protect our native plants and educate the public about these potential threats.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Monitor for aphids and snails. Leaf spots may occur. All parts of this plant are poisonous if ingested and contain cardiac glycosides. Keep out of the reach of small children and pets.