Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis)

The leaves entice one to check daily for opening white blossoms and for release of pungent sweet fragrance.. This delicate beauty is the favorite of both my mother and daughter. Loved by many for many years, it is associated with Mary’s tears after the crucifixion of Jesus as well as the Germanic virgin goddess of spring Ostara, it has come to symbolize purity and humility.

But the beauty of this plant is best kept at a distance perhaps in your favorite vase.. Lily bulbs have been a delicacy for years in stir fry and salads. But those are day lilies. Every part of Lily of the Valley is highly poisonous and grows from spreading rhizomes.

Happy Mother ‘s Day mom and thank you Becky for giving me the privilege to celebrate Mother ‘s Day too. You are both on my mind every time I step in my garden and smell the sweet spring aroma of Lily of the Valley and think of your special beauty.