Maianthemum bifolium subsp. kamtschaticum BSWJ 4360

May Lily Asparagaceae

A little woodland gem from an island where apparently even lily-of-the-valley likes a sea view. This particularly choice form was collected by Crûg Farm on Ullüngdõ (Ulleungdo), South Korea, under collection number BSWJ 4360. It forms a spreading carpet from slender rhizomes, with short upright stems bearing glossy, deep-green, heart-shaped leaves.

In late spring, the foliage is topped by delicate, branching sprays of small, sweetly scented white flowers, followed by conspicuous, currant-like fruits which mature red. The combination of handsome foliage, fragrance and fruit makes it considerably more interesting than its modest stature might suggest.

Ullüngdõ is a remote volcanic island with a distinctive flora, and this Crûg Farm collection makes a particularly attractive woodland plant. Grow in partial to full shade, in moist, humus-rich soil that does not dry out in summer. Once established, its slender rhizomes gradually form an effective groundcover without the rampant behaviour of some woodland spreaders. It can be prone to damage from late frosts due to its early emergence.

The name also comes with a taxonomic footnote: Maianthemum bifolium subsp. kamtschaticum is still encountered widely in horticulture, although Kew currently treats it as synonymous with Maianthemum dilatatum. We retain the traditional name here to reflect the Crûg Farm catalogue provenance. Our plants of Maianthemum dilatatum  are considerably smaller than this form.

Height: 15–30cm
Spread: 40–80cm
Flowering: May–June
Fruiting: July–September
Hardiness: H7, below -20°C
Position: Partial shade to shade
Soil: Moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil
Collection: Ullüngdõ (Ulleungdo), South Korea — BSWJ 4360, Crûg Farm