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Original poster

Lilly of the valley

13 replies

userxx · 19/04/2022 09:32

Just noticed a load of new plants which have appeared out of nowhere, can anyone confirm if it's lily of the valley? I've got a dog and I'm sure they are toxic.

Any help much appreciated.

Lilly of the valley
Lilly of the valley
OP posts:
RomansTheyGoTheHouse · 19/04/2022 09:35

Yup, that looks like LofV to me.

viques · 19/04/2022 09:41

When we were kids we lived in a flat which was the top floor of a very old house ( 17 century) it had originally had a walled garden, the wall still existed and along one side of it, for about 70 feet, the border, about three feet wide was completely filled with Lily of the valley in the spring. It was amazing, and the perfume from it was intoxicating. I have never been able to grow it, but know it wouldn’t match up to my memories so am not too distressed.

Original poster
userxx · 19/04/2022 10:40

Why would it just suddenly appear after all these years ? Could it have come through from the neighbours garden ? It needs to go, I've got a plant eating dog.

OP posts:
Original poster
userxx · 19/04/2022 10:41

@viques I'd keep it if it wasn't for the dog, Its a space I've wanted to fill up for ages. Typical.

OP posts:
longtompot · 19/04/2022 10:51

Can you put it in a pot and put it somewhere the dog can't get at it? I love Lily of the Valley, it reminds me of going to my nanny's house where it was below her kitchen window

Original poster
userxx · 19/04/2022 11:38

@longtompot

Can you put it in a pot and put it somewhere the dog can't get at it? I love Lily of the Valley, it reminds me of going to my nanny's house where it was below her kitchen window
Possibly. Its such a shame isn't it. Think I know where its come from and I think its intentional, not aimed at me but my next door neighbour. Will have a word tonight and warn them to check their garden.
OP posts:
indignatio · 19/04/2022 13:15

It may not be deliberate, mine are so much more prolific than they have been for the last 5 or so years. Maybe the conditions are just right this year.

Gowithme · 19/04/2022 13:50

They're supposed to be quite aggressive spreaders aren't they? In 20 years though I've only ever had one, always comes up but hasn't spread at all. Maybe it's my clay soil.

viques · 24/04/2022 12:53

Bumping this in case anyone didn’t see Gardeners World on Friday. Himself was planting up a container with some Lily of the valley and was very particular about washing his hands afterwards as he said it is very poisonous. I have vague memories of a Breaking Bad sub plot involving Lily of the valley but assumed it was a bit of poetic licence. Apparently not. Take care!

Original poster
userxx · 24/04/2022 21:48

@viques I watched it!! I did the right thing by pulling it up, it would have stayed if it wasn't for the dog, perfect plant for a shady spot at the bottom of the garden. Glad it featured on GW to warn people.

OP posts:
Boiledeggandtoast · 24/04/2022 21:57

They are beautiful at this time of year and smell gorgeous, but beware - they are very invasive and will be knocking at your door before you know it. Did you manage to get it out by the roots?!

JaneJeffer · 24/04/2022 21:58

I planted some years ago and they never appeared. Maybe there's hope yet Grin

Original poster
userxx · 24/04/2022 22:08

Boiledeggandtoast · 24/04/2022 21:57

They are beautiful at this time of year and smell gorgeous, but beware - they are very invasive and will be knocking at your door before you know it. Did you manage to get it out by the roots?!

Probably not all the roots, I'll keep my eye open for more popping up!

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