Convallaria

Common Names: Convallaria, Lily of the Valley

Botanical names: Convallaria, (kahn-val-AIR-ee-ah)

Availability: Year round, most abundant in April and May. See additional notes.

Vase life: 2 to 6 days

Storage temperatures: 36 - 38 degrees Fahrenheit

Ethylene Sensitive: Yes

Description: Tiny bell-shaped flowers on short stems.

Color: Generally white, some pink

Botanical facts: The name is from the Latin word convallis (valley).

Design notes: A very fragrant flower used primarily in wedding and corsage work.

Purchasing hints: Purchase when 1/4 of the buds are are open.

Conditioning: Cut stem under water with a sharp knife. Hydrate in a solution of warm water and commercial floral preservative / floral food for two hours before storage or usage. If received with roots attached, do not cut off the roots, submerge roots in a solution of warm water and commercial floral preservative / floral food.

Additional notes: Yes, Lilly of the Valley is available year round. However, supplies are very limited and it may be impossible to find. Said to have been the favorite flower of Queen Victoria.