Maianthemum stellatum
star-flowered lily of the valley
A creeping, rhizomatous perennial with narrow, pointed leaves that clasp upright stems, to about 60cm tall. Small sprays of white, star-shaped, lightly-scented flowers appear in late spring and early summer followed by berries that start off green with black stripes, turning red with black stripes then black
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | Green Black | |
| Autumn | Green | Red Black | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Potentially harmful
- Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
- Genus
Maianthemum are rhizomatous perennials with erect or arching stems bearing alternate leaves and small star-shaped flowers in terminal racemes or panicles, followed by red berries
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- North America
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, humus-rich, lime-free, moist but well-drained soil in partial shade. Shelter from cold winds. Can spread
Propagation
Propagate by seed in pots in a cold frame in autumn, or by division of rhizomes in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Low Maintenance
- Banks and slopes
- Ground cover
- Underplanting of roses and shrubs
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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