Maianthemum bifolium
may lily
Overview
Maianthemum bifolium is a low, creeping woodland perennial in the asparagus family, spreading by thin underground rhizomes to form open carpets 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) tall. Flowering stems usually carry two, occasionally three, glossy heart-shaped leaves 1.5-3 inches (4-8 cm) long with wavy margins. In late spring each stem produces a short erect raceme of small white star-shaped flowers, each about 0.15 inch (4 mm) across with four spreading tepals, unlike the six-parted flowers of most lilies. The flowers are followed by round berries that ripen from green, mottled with brown-red, to a translucent red about 0.25 inch (6 mm) wide. The berries contain saponins and are regarded as mildly toxic to people and pets if eaten. The plant grows in the cool, humus-rich soils of shaded woodlands and spreads steadily once settled, which suits it to groundcover under trees but can let it move into adjacent beds. Non-flowering shoots bear a single leaf.
Native Range
Maianthemum bifolium is native across temperate Europe and Asia, from western Europe through Siberia to Japan, growing in deciduous and coniferous forests and on shaded, acidic woodland floors.Suggested Uses
Grown as a shade and woodland groundcover beneath trees and shrubs, in native woodland gardens, and along the cool side of buildings. It fills shaded ground where many plants struggle and pairs with ferns and other woodlanders. The red berries are toxic to people and pets if eaten.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height4" - 8"
Width/Spread1' - 2'
Bloom Information
Flowering occurs in late spring, generally May to June, with the small white racemes lasting two to three weeks. The flowers carry a light scent and draw small insects. Berries develop through summer and color to red by late summer and fall.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
glossy greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Tolerates up to 4 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight