Maianthemum bifolium

Maianthemum bifolium, also known as the two-leaved false lily of the valley or small lily of the valley, is a perennial ground cover similar to lily of the valley that is sometimes found in our undergrowth. Unlike the latter, it most often thrives on acidic and cool to moist soils. Even more vigorous than lily of the valley, it quickly colonises the soil, adorning it with large shiny leaves, and comes to life in spring with an abundant white flowering, sadly devoid of fragrance. Ornamental and low-maintenance, it is an ideal plant on the edge of undergrowth or under large deciduous trees.

Maianthemum bifolium belongs to the Asparagaceae family. It is native to Northern and Western Europe. Its natural habitat usually corresponds to chestnut and coniferous undergrowth. It is an herbaceous perennial plant with rhizomes, whose deciduous growth starts in spring and disappears in winter. The plant eventually forms a beautiful ground cover, reaching a height of 25 to 30cm (10 to 12in) and a minimum width of 50cm (20in), depending on the richness of the soil it grows in.

In spring, segmented stems with quadrangular cross-sections emerge from the stump. They are adorned with wide heart-shaped leaves with undulating margins. They are shiny and bright green on top, hairy on the underside, and traversed by prominent parallel veins. They are arranged alternately and have a thin petiole. Flowering occurs in May and June. Beautiful white spikes measuring 10 to 15cm (4 to 6in) unfold at the end of the stems, adorned with numerous small flowers with 4 petals and prominent stamens, measuring 6mm in diameter. After pollination, small globular berries form. They are initially green and become red and shiny when ripe. This plant has the same toxicity as lily of the valley.

Maianthemum bifolium is an excellent plant for cool shade. It is vigorous, long-lasting, and adaptable to many regions. This perennial is not hindered by the competition of tree and shrub roots. It is valuable for landscaping areas of the garden that are often difficult to vegetate. Plant it alongside periwinkles, nodding perennial geraniums, and lesser celandines, as well as Speirantha convallarioides, Smilacina racemosa, Deinanthe caerulea and Viola elatior which all appreciate the same environments and make excellent companions for this false lily of the valley.