White lily of the valley

Filler · Asparagaceae

Lily of the valley

Convallaria majalis

Also known as May lily and Muguet

Tiny, bell-shaped blooms traditionally associated with the return of happiness.

Colour: White

Traditionally, the return of happiness.

Use in a bouquet All flowers

Toxic to cats and dogs. Read the pet-safety note

Peak season
Apr–May
Vase life
3–5 days
Birth month
May
Colours
2

What the lily of the valley means

In the Victorian language of flowers, lily of the valley meant the return of happiness, and it has long been a bridal flower; Grace Kelly and Catherine Middleton both carried it at their weddings. In France, sprigs of muguet are given on May 1 for luck, a custom often traced to King Charles IX in the 1560s. Christian legend links the flowers to Mary's tears at the cross. Despite its name it is not a true lily, and every part of the plant is poisonous. As with all flower meanings, these are customs, not facts.

Flower meanings come mostly from Victorian floriography, and they vary between books, eras, and cultures.

Often sent for

  • Anniversary
  • Mother's Day
  • Birthday
  • Just because

By colour

  • White Traditionally, the return of happiness.
  • Pale pink Often given for sweetness and humility.

Keeping it fresh

Mid to late spring; forced stems can be found at other times at a premium.

  1. 1 Recut stems under water and keep the vase in a cool room; the tiny bells fade fast in heat.
  2. 2 Use a small vase so the short stems sit well down in the water.
  3. 3 Wash your hands after handling; every part of the plant is poisonous if eaten.

Pet safety

  • cats Toxic
  • dogs Toxic
  • horses Toxic

ASPCA lists lily of the valley as toxic (cardenolides): vomiting, irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure, disorientation, coma, and seizures.

Source: ASPCA toxic and non-toxic plants. If a pet eats any plant, call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.

Birth flower · May

May's flower, shared with hawthorn.

Choose “Birthday” in the studio and pick May — the lily of the valley leads the bouquet.

Did you know

In France, May 1 is la Fête du Muguet, when sprigs of lily of the valley are sold on street corners and given for luck.

Pairs well with

Make your own lily of the valley bouquet

Pick a vase, add a card, and share the link — no delivery van, no wilting.

Open Flower Studio