ALL ABOUT LILY OF THE VALLEY: COLORS, VARIETIES, AND MORE
What is special about the lily of the valley?
Lily of the Valley flowers are cherished for their delicate, bell-shaped blooms and sweet fragrance. Often found in gardens and bouquets, lily of the valley adds a touch of elegance and grace to any setting. Let’s explore the beauty and significance of lily of the valley, their varieties, meanings, and tips for caring for these lovely blooms.
A favorite at royal weddings around the world, it also holds national significance as Finland’s official flower and once as the national flower of Yugoslavia. In France, May 1 marks La Fête du Muguet, when lilies of the valley are gifted to loved ones as tokens of luck and happiness. Its fresh, distinctive fragrance has inspired countless perfumes from renowned houses such as Estée Lauder and Dior.
At a Glance
Delicate bells, a memorable fragrance, and a meaning rooted in purity and the return of happiness. Lily of the valley reminds us that quiet beauty can leave a lasting impression.
COLORS AND SYMBOLISM OF LILY OF THE VALLEY
Convallaria majalis : White Lily of the Valley
or the common LOV, this is the timeless icon you probably picture in your mind, the one that has captured hearts for generations. Its delicate, arching stems are lined with nodding, pure white bells that release that famously sweet and intoxicating perfume.
While simple in its form, its understated elegance is its greatest strength, symbolising purity and the return of happiness. It is the definitive variety against which all others are measured.
The classic and most well-known variety, featuring pure white, bell-shaped flowers that emit a sweet fragrance. This variety is often used in weddings and symbolises purity and happiness. Its pristine appearance makes it a timeless favorite.
Rosea : Pink Lily of the Valley
For those who adore a touch of romance, 'Rosea' is a true treasure with its charming, pale pink blossoms. The colour is soft and subtle, like a gentle blush, giving the classic flower a completely new and whimsical personality.
It is a highly sought-after variety that brings a dreamy, fairytale quality to any floral arrangement. This pink version is a rare beauty that never fails to get people talking.
This is the most common alternative color. These feature soft, blush-pink to pale pink bell-shaped flowers. The pink color is often more pronounced when the plant is grown in full shade. They are generally less fragrant than the white variety.
DID YOU KNOW? IT'S NOT A TRUE LILY
Lily of the valley belongs to the same family as Asparagaceae
According to phylogenetic classification, Convallaria majalis belongs to the Asparagaceae family. This family includes species as diverse as asparagus (Asparagus officinalis), agave, hyacinth (Yacinthus), yucca and fragrant Dragonfood (Dracaena fragrans). Lily of the valley and the other Asparagaceae are all descended from the same ancestor, but these species have evolved differently.
According to classical classification, lily of the valley belongs to the Liliaceae family, a group that includes tulips (Tulipa), lilies (Lilium) and fritillaries (Fritillaria). This system is based on resemblance between species. For example, lily of the valley's leaves resemble those of tulips, and its flowers are similar in shape to those of fritillaries.
A Little Bloom, a Lasting Meaning
From tokens of luck to wedding bouquets, these small bells carry heartfelt wishes for happiness. Their understated charm is a gentle reminder that a meaningful gesture need not be grand.
FUN FACTS ABOUT LILY-OF-THE-VALLEY
How many of these Lily of the Valley facts did you know?
- Perfume Favorite: The sweet scent inspired famous perfumes, including Dior's Diorissimo.
- Legendary Origins: Often called "Mary’s Tears" or "Our Lady's Tears," legend says the flowers grew from where the Virgin Mary's tears fell at the cross.
- Highly Toxic: Every part of the plant, including the water in a vase of cut flowers, is poisonous if ingested, containing cardiac glycosides.
- May Birth Flower: It is the official flower for the month of May.
- Royal Choice: Kate Middleton used it in her bridal bouquet when marrying Prince William.
- Ancient Medicine: Historically used to treat burns, epilepsy, and even poison gas exposure during WWI.
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