Convallaria majalis 'Fortin's Giant' (Lily-of-the-valley) — Perennial

Overview

Convallaria majalis 'Fortin's Giant' is a perennial in the genus Convallaria, part of the Asparagaceae family. It typically grows around 0.2 m tall. Convallaria majalis 'Fortin's Giant' grows best in full sun and full shade, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to Europe, Western Asia and Northern Asia.

About the genus

Convallaria is a genus of flowering plants, commonly known as lily-of-the-valley. It includes three species native to temperate Eurasia and the east-central United States.

Wikipedia contributors, "Convallaria", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Convallaria

In the garden

Convallaria majalis 'Fortin's Giant' is a perennial native to Europe, Western Asia and Northern Asia, valued for its concentrated display of scented, pendent white bells in April to May. At around 0.2 m tall it provides a low spring flowering layer and is noted for its clear, sweet fragrance when in bloom. Plant where soil matches its tolerance: sandy, loamy or clay soils that stay anything from well-drained through moist to wet are all acceptable. It will tolerate full sun through to full shade, so choose a spot that gives either dappled light or shaded conditions if soil remains moist. The cultivar is fully hardy (H7) and corresponds to USDA zones 2–7. In UK gardens it suits shaded or partly shaded borders and naturalistic spring schemes where early scent and white flowers are wanted. Exercise caution around children and pets as the plant is toxic. Leave flowering stems undisturbed in April to May to enjoy the scent while the bells are at their best.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Convallaria

Sunlight: Full sun, Full shade
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil moisture: Well-drained, Moist but well-drained, Wet
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Convallaria majalis 'Fortin's Giant' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial
Height: 0.2 m
Native to: Europe, Western Asia, Northern Asia
Fragrance: Sweetly scented
Toxicity: Toxic

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Convallaria majalis 'Fortin's Giant'?

Convallaria majalis 'Fortin's Giant' prefers full sun and full shade.

What soil does Convallaria majalis 'Fortin's Giant' need?

Convallaria majalis 'Fortin's Giant' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained to wet.

How big does Convallaria majalis 'Fortin's Giant' grow?

Convallaria majalis 'Fortin's Giant' reaches a height of 0.2 m.

Is Convallaria majalis 'Fortin's Giant' hardy in the UK?

Convallaria majalis 'Fortin's Giant' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.