Maianthemum canadense
Canadian mayflower
A spreading perennial to 25cm tall, with glossy, dark green, ovate leaves to 5cm long on short stalks from the rhizome. In late spring and early summer it produces loose spikes of small, white, starry flowers; these are followed by green-mottled berries ripening to red. Grow in a woodland garden or shaded border
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 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 Red | |
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full shade
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- 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, East and Central North America
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in humus-rich, moist but well-drained, neutral to acid soil in light dappled or full shade
Propagation
Propagate by sowing seed in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe. Divide rhizomes in early spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Flower borders and beds
- Underplanting of roses and shrubs
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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