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Wild Lily-of-the-valley

Pyrola elliptica

Last reviewed: July 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.

Common questions

How much sun does Wild Lily-of-the-valley need?
Wild Lily-of-the-valley grows best in part shade conditions.
When does Wild Lily-of-the-valley bloom?
Wild Lily-of-the-valley blooms in June and July.
Where is Wild Lily-of-the-valley native?
Wild Lily-of-the-valley (Pyrola elliptica) is native to AZ, CT, DE, IA and 25 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Wild Lily-of-the-valley attract?
Wild Lily-of-the-valley draws bees and beetles.
Is Wild Lily-of-the-valley HOA-friendly?
Wild Lily-of-the-valley 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 Wild Lily-of-the-valley? 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