Canadian May-lily
Maianthemum canadense
Last reviewed: June 2026
Maianthemum canadense is a native woodland groundcover found across eastern and northern North America. This delicate forb produces small white flowers in May and June, thriving in shaded forest conditions.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–8" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
CT, DE, GA, IA and 26 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Canadian may-lily is a low-growing woodland groundcover with heart-shaped leaves and delicate white flower clusters in late spring. This shade-loving perennial forms small colonies and produces bright red berries in late summer, adding seasonal interest to garden beds.
Growing Canadian May-lily
Grow Canadian May-lily in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 4 to 8 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Canadian May-lily takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very woodland/wild appearance doesn't fit typical HOA aesthetics
- Can look sparse or weedy outside natural settings
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare ground
Wildlife value
The small white flowers attract native bees and beetles during the May-June bloom period. The red berries provide food for birds and small mammals in late summer.
Common questions
- When does Maianthemum canadense bloom?
- Canadian May-lily typically blooms in May and June, producing small white flowers on short stems above heart-shaped leaves.
- What pollinators visit Maianthemum canadense?
- This native woodland plant attracts bees and beetles, which help pollinate the small white flowers during the spring blooming period.
- Where is Maianthemum canadense native?
- Canadian May-lily is native to most eastern and northern US states, from Maine south to Georgia and west through the Great Lakes region to Montana and Wyoming.
- What growing conditions does Maianthemum canadense prefer?
- This woodland forb thrives in partial to full shade with medium moisture levels, making it ideal for forest gardens and naturalized areas under tree canopy.
- Is Canadian May-lily HOA-friendly?
- Canadian May-lily takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Canadian May-lily? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz