Asparagus Family – Asparagaceae

False Lily-of-the-valley is also called Wild Lily-of-the-Valley or Two-leaved Solomon’s Seal.

Plant Description: False Lily-of-the-valley grows 4 to 12 inches tall and has a spike of tiny white flowers standing above the leaves. There are usually 2 leaves on long petioles (leaf stems). The leaves are parallel-veined, shiny, heart-shaped, 8 inches long and 4 inches wide, with a pointy tip.

Flower Description: The tiny (1/8 inch across) white flowers are unusual in the Lily Family, as they have flower parts in 4’s.  There are 4 reflexed tepals, 4 protruding stamen with white anthers, and a style with 2 lobes. The stamens give the flower a fuzzy appearance.

Ecology: False Lily-of-the-valley grows in areas in shady woods at low to middle elevations.

Notes:

• False Lily-of-the-valley has been moved from the Lily Family to the Asparagus Family.  See “APG Changes” page.
• The flowers are delicately scented.
• The fruits are round shiny berries starting with brown mottling, then turning red. These sometimes persist into winter.

 False Lily-of-the-valley Photo Gallery