Northwest Blooms · Groundcovers
Convallaria majalis 'Prolificans'
Prolificans Lily of the Valley
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Height
- 6 to 10 in
- Width
- 12 to 18 in
- Flower color
- Classic white, bell-shaped, nodding flowers along arching stems
- Foliage color
- Rich medium green, broad strap-shaped basal leaves that form a dense clump
- Bloom time
- Mid spring
- Light
- Partial shade to full shade
- Water
- Moderate moisture
- Maintenance
- Low; remove spent flower stalks after bloom, allow foliage to die back naturally before removal, divide clumps every few years if overcrowded
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 2 to 8
- Wildlife
- Bees, butterflies, and other early-season pollinators
About this plant
Convallaria majalis 'Prolificans' produces arching stems lined with lush green, lance-shaped leaves that form a dense, spreading ground layer. In late spring, the plant bears clusters of fully double, bell-shaped white flowers with layered petals that give each bloom a softly ruffled appearance. The blossoms are carried along gently curving stems and release a sweet, familiar fragrance.
Blooming in mid to late spring, this cultivated form originated as a European garden selection. It is well suited to shaded borders, woodland gardens, and naturalized plantings, where its dense foliage and ornamental flowers create a refined carpet beneath trees and shrubs.
Works well in
Pollinator Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Borders · Deer-Prone Areas
Companion plants
Ferns · Primroses · Hostas · Siberian buglosses · Hellebores · Toad lilies
Design tip
Feature this double-flowered selection in places where visitors naturally pause, such as beside garden benches or along shaded walkways. The refined blooms reward closer viewing, adding an unexpected touch of elegance without disrupting the relaxed character of woodland plantings.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at Leach Botanical Garden.
