False Lily of the Valley

Speirantha gardenii is an excellent, choice evergreen ground cover for British woodland gardens. Originating from China, it forms low, dense clumps of broad, glossy, dark green leaves that resemble those of more common lily-of-the-valley, but are much tougher and remain attractive all year round. In late spring and early summer, it produces short spikes of starry, white, fragrant flowers that are held just above or within the foliage. Unlike many other woodland ground covers, it is quite slow-growing and never becomes invasive. It is fully hardy (H5) and is particularly useful for dry shade once established, although it prefers a moist, humus-rich soil to start. Reaching about 20cm in height, it is a perfect plant for a north-facing border or for planting under the dense canopy of trees where other plants might struggle. Its understated beauty and year-round presence make it a valuable, low-maintenance structural component of the shade garden.

Sun: Full shade.

Soil: Moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.

Flowering: May, Jun.