Convallaria majalis

Convallaria majalis, commonly known as lily-of-the-valley, is a herbaceous perennial woodland plant famous for its sweetly scented, bell-shaped white spring flowers. It spreads via underground rhizomes to form extensive colonies in shady environments.

It is native to Europe and parts of western and northern Asia, generally avoiding the Mediterranean region. The plant thrives in partial shade across various soil types, from sea level up to moderate mountain altitudes.

Widely cultivated as an ornamental ground cover for shady gardens and historically forced in pots for winter cut flowers. Its highly prized, sweet floral scent is frequently imitated in the commercial perfume industry.

Historically used in European folk medicine to treat heart conditions and as a diuretic due to its cardiac glycosides. In pre-modern England, it was known as glovewort and used to create a topical salve for sore hands.

In Christian folklore, it is known as Our Lady's tears, with legends stating the flowers sprang from the Virgin Mary's tears at the crucifixion. In France, it is traditionally gifted on May Day for good luck, while pre-modern English legend claimed the plant was discovered by Apollo.