Northwest Blooms · Groundcovers
Maianthemum dilatatum
False Lily of the Valley
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Height
- 6 to 12 in
- Width
- 12 to 24 in
- Flower color
- White, fragrant star-shaped flower clusters
- Foliage color
- Glossy medium to deep green, broad heart-shaped leaves
- Bloom time
- Late spring to early summer
- Light
- Partial shade to full shade
- Water
- Moderate to consistent moisture, prefers moist, humus-rich soils
- Maintenance
- Low, spreads slowly by rhizomes, thin colonies if needed to control spread
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 4 to 9
- Wildlife
- Bees, pollinating insects
About this plant
Maianthemum dilatatum forms spreading colonies of glossy, heart-shaped leaves with prominent veining and a soft, pleated texture. The foliage emerges fresh green and creates a dense ground layer well suited to shaded settings. In late spring, slender stalks rise above the leaves, carrying airy clusters of tiny white, star-like flowers with a light, sweet fragrance.
Blooming from late spring into early summer, this species is native to moist forests along the Pacific coast of North America and northeastern Asia. It integrates naturally into woodland gardens, shaded borders, and native plantings, where its lush foliage provides long-lasting structure and gentle seasonal rhythm.
Works well in
Woodland Gardens · Native Gardens · Under Trees · Borders
Companion plants
Trilliums · Kalmias · Tiarellas · Ferns · Oxalis · Rodgersia
Design tip
Allow this woodland native to spread into broad colonies beneath trees where its lush foliage creates a natural green carpet. Layer evergreen shrubs, bold ferns, and contrasting leaf shapes to develop a peaceful woodland composition with depth, rhythm, and seasonal texture.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at Heronswood Garden.
