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Wild Lily-of-the-valley

Pyrola elliptica

Last reviewed: June 2026

Wild Lily-of-the-valley (Pyrola elliptica)
Photo: (c) Tom Norton, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Tom Norton

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

4"–12" H × 4"–8" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul

Native to

AZ, CT, DE, IA and 25 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Wild lily-of-the-valley is a low-growing native wildflower with glossy evergreen leaves arranged in a basal rosette. It produces delicate white, bell-shaped flowers on short stems in early summer. This woodland plant spreads slowly to form small colonies in shaded areas.

In an HOA neighborhood

Wild Lily-of-the-valley 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 small stature makes it nearly invisible in typical landscaping
  • Woodland wildflower appearance may be seen as unmaintained
  • Slow spread and low profile don't create formal garden look

Wildlife value

The fragrant flowers attract native bees and beetles during its June-July bloom period. Its evergreen foliage provides year-round ground cover in woodland settings.

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.

Does Wild Lily-of-the-valley fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.