Maianthemum canadense aka Canada Mayflower

Taxonomy

Genus Maianthemum Family Asparagaceae Order Asparagales Class Liliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Maianthemum canadense, also known as Canadian may-lily, Canada mayflower, false lily-of-the-valley, Canadian lily-of-the-valley, wild lily-of-the-valley, or two-leaved Solomon's seal, is a spreading perennial that grows up to 25cm tall. This understory plant is native to Canada and the northeastern United States, ranging from Yukon and British Columbia to Newfoundland, including St. Pierre and Miquelon. It thrives in both coniferous and deciduous forests. The plant can appear in two forms: either as a single leaf rising from the ground without any fruiting structures or as a flowering/fruiting stem with 2-3 leaves. The glossy, dark green, ovate leaves, up to 5cm long, grow on short stalks from the rhizome. In late spring and early summer, it produces loose spikes of small, starry-shaped, white flowers in clusters of 12–25, held above the leaves. Following the beautiful flowers, green-mottled berries start to develop, gradually ripening to a vibrant red. Maianthemum canadense is an excellent addition to a woodland garden or shaded border, adding a touch of elegance to the surroundings.

Common names

Canada Mayflower, Canadian May Lily, False Lily Of The Valley

How to care for Canada Mayflower

Difficulty

Canada Mayflower requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Canada Mayflower should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Canada Mayflower loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Canada Mayflower to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Fertilizer

The growth of Canada Mayflower is not rapid and it doesn't necessitate any extra fertilization. By replacing its potting soil once a year, it should receive ample nutrition. It is important to note that plants obtain their energy from the sun's rays, not from fertilizers.

Region of origin

Canada Mayflower’s native range is Eastern N. America - Labrador to Georgia, west to Tennessee and Iowa.

More info:
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More Species in Maianthemum Genus

Maianthemum canadense Canada Mayflower

Maianthemum bifolium May Lily

Maianthemum stellatum False Solomon's Seal

Maianthemum dilatatum May Lily

Maianthemum trifolium Three Leaf False Solomon's Seal