Flower Library
Lily of the Valley
Convallaria majalis · Asparagaceae
Lily of the valley are May's most mysterious flowers. Small white bells on the stem, the delicate scent that's unmistakable. BUT: highly toxic in every plant part. Beautiful flower with dangerous character.
- Season
- May
- Vase life
- 3–6 days
- Latin name
- Convallaria majalis
- Colors
- White
Season only May — really short. Lily of the valley fans must catch two weeks, then it's done for a year.
Caution: ALL plant parts (bloom, stem, leaf, vase water) are toxic. In households with children or pets, AVOID entirely — contact can irritate, ingestion is dangerous.
Traditionally given on May 1 ('May Day') in France — small bunches gifted for luck. In Germany less traditional, more in wedding floristry (Kate Middleton's bridal bouquet included lily of the valley).
Is Lily of the Valley toxic to children and pets?
- Children
- Highly toxic
- Cats
- Highly toxic
- Dogs
- Highly toxic
Highly toxic to cats, dogs and horses — and to children as well. All plant parts and even the vase water contain cardiac glycosides (including convallatoxin); even small amounts can trigger vomiting and dangerous heart arrhythmia. Avoid entirely in households with pets or small children.
Typical symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and dangerous heart arrhythmia up to cardiac arrest — even after small amounts.
In an emergency:call the German poison control centre in Bonn on +49 228 19240 (24/7) — for pets, contact an emergency vet directly. This information does not replace medical or veterinary advice.
Overview: toxic & non-toxic plants for cats, dogs and children
Care
- 01Caution when handling — gloves recommended.
- 02Cut at an angle, place shallow in water.
- 03NEVER reuse vase water for other plants or flowers — toxic.
- 04Keep cool, accept short vase life.
Frequently asked
- How toxic are lily of the valley really?
- Highly toxic. Small amounts cause nausea, vomiting, heart arrhythmia. If swallowed call emergency immediately.
- In bridal bouquets: yes or no?
- Possible, with care. At the wedding meal better not directly on tables — the mother-of-the-bride shouldn't place the bouquet on the buffet.
- When are lily of the valley in season?
- Only in May, and only for about two weeks. Outside this short window fresh lily of the valley is hardly available — for a wedding or May Day, reserve early.
- Are lily of the valley toxic to cats and dogs?
- Yes, highly toxic to cats, dogs and horses. All plant parts and the vase water contain cardiac glycosides that can cause heart arrhythmia even in small amounts. In households with pets avoid entirely and call the vet immediately if ingestion is suspected.