Lily-of-the-valley (Convallaria majalis)

The Fragrant Flower of Folklore and Renewal

Historical and Cultural Significance

Lily-of-the-valley is a beloved flower across Cornwall and the UK, steeped in folklore, tradition, and symbolism.

Symbol of Purity and Joy
Known as the “return of happiness” flower, it’s linked to innocence, renewal, and good fortune—often gifted on May Day or used in bridal bouquets for its message of joy and new beginnings.

Religious and Mythic Associations
Said to have sprung from the Virgin Mary’s tears or Eve’s sorrow, it embodies both grief and hope. Revered in Christian folklore, it also became a traditional funeral flower, symbolizing loss and consolation.

Cornish Heritage: Flora Day’s Flower
In Helston, lily-of-the-valley is the emblematic flower of Flora Day, worn by dancers in the town’s famous Furry Dance, representing the arrival of spring and renewal of life.

Royal and Bridal Symbolism
Favoured in royal weddings, including that of Queen Elizabeth II, the flower symbolizes purity, love, and enduring happiness.

Cautionary Beauty
Though delicate and fragrant, all parts of the plant are highly toxic, reminding us of nature’s paradox of beauty and danger.

Growing Lily-of-the-valley in Coastal Gardens

Care and Cultivation Tips

• Site Selection:
  Plant in shady, moist spots—under trees or in sheltered borders away from wind and salt spray.
• Soil & Planting:
  Enrich with leaf mould or compost. Space rhizomes 6 inches apart and plant shallowly. Best planted in autumn or early spring.
• Watering:
  Water well, especially during dry spells. Avoid waterlogged soils.
• Fertilizing:
  Not usually needed if soil is rich; avoid overfeeding to prevent lush leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
• Maintenance:
  Minimal care; remove dead leaves as needed. Divide every few years if clumps become congested.
• Containment:
  Can spread vigorously—contain in beds or edged areas if you wish to control its spread.

Coastal Garden Notes

Perfect for shady, sheltered coastal gardens, lily-of-the-valley forms a lush groundcover and offers fragrant spring blooms with little intervention—just be sure to protect from direct salt spray.

Summary

Lily-of-the-valley is a fragrant emblem of happiness, purity, and folklore, cherished in Cornwall for its role in Helston Flora Day and in British tradition as a flower of love and renewal. Thriving in shady, moist soils, it brings beauty and heritage to any coastal garden.