Lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis) is a herbaceous perennial (in the Asparagus family), native to woodlands.   It forms colonies by spreading through underground rhizomes.   Small green leafy shoots with green leaves rise in spring, followed by small, white flowers which are 6 tepals fused into an urn shape.   The flowers are fragrant, but all parts of the plant are toxic. Red berries form in summer.

Lily of the valley works well in a partly-shaded out-of-the-way spot where it can multiply.

It is not a recommended plant for garden beds since it can be invasive and it is potentially hazardous to pets, children, and wildlife. We have had it for decades and we pull out roots every year, but it still appears each year. In small numbers at the back of beds, we tolerate it, but we also enjoy the tiny scented white flowers in spring.