feathery false lily of the valley
Maianthemum racemosum
RHS AGM 1993
USDA zones3 to 8
SunHandles partial sun to full shade
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size2 to 3 feet tall18 to 24 inches wide
- Habit
- Herb
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer
- Bloom color
- Creamy white
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay
- Soil pH
- Acid, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Feathery false lily of the valley (Maianthemum racemosum) is a perennial for shade gardens, woodland settings, and borders. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes part sun to full shade and average to moist, sandy, loamy, or clay soil. Creamy white, fragrant flower plumes top arching stems in spring. Berries ripen to pink-red in autumn, and birds eat them. Plant it in groups of six or more stalks for the best show.
Pairs well with Bellwort, Woodland phlox, Western sword fern, and Invincibelle Ruby smooth hydrangea.
Native range
North America and Central America.