Pink Lily of the Valley 'Rosea'

A charming and less common variation of the classic Lily of the Valley, 'Rosea' offers a delicate touch of colour to the woodland floor. This rhizomatous perennial forms a thick carpet of broad, upright green leaves that are effective at covering ground in shaded spots. In May, it produces dainty, arching racemes of nodding, bell-shaped flowers in a soft, dusty-pink hue. These flowers possess the same legendary, sweet fragrance as the white species, which can perfume an entire corner of the garden on a still spring evening. It thrives in moisture-retentive, humus-rich soil in partial to full shade, mimicking its natural woodland habitat. Once established, it can spread quite vigorously, making it a great choice for naturalising under shrubs. Native to the UK and fully hardy (H7), it is a low-maintenance plant, though gardeners should be aware that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested. It is perfect for bringing fragrance and delicate beauty to damp, shady areas.

Sun: Full shade to partial shade.

Soil: Moist, humus-rich soil.

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.

Flowering: May.