Muguet de mai

My Lily of the Valley are just beginning to flower. The French have a tradition of giving these on May day; they call them muguet de mai. They smell so sweet; it's a great way to start the day with the scent of these flowers.

Lily of the Valley

Not much to look at yet, but this is an example of how plants find a way to grow everywhere! The closest Lily of the Valley is about a yard (meter) to the right. This one grew from a root reaching under the concrete to this crack, where it found enough water and sun to sprout through to the surface.

It's miraculous.

Lily of the Valley

We are a little behind Eric's Le Muguet, but Lily of the Valley do bloom here. And they smell wonderful, too. Very fragrant. If you decide to grow these, be aware that they spread readily to other parts of the garden - you may see these everywhere in your garden within a few years!

I don't know of any traditions regarding Lily of the Valley. I was fascinated to read Eric's account. I also had no idea they were poisonous until I looked them up.