Speirantha convallarioides

Speirantha convallarioides, commonly known as the false lily of the valley or Chinese May Lily, is a small perennial ground-covering plant similar to lily of the valley. It differs by its evergreen foliage and tiny pure white star-shaped flowers that are slightly later and less fragrant, and its smaller spread. It is a very hardy plant, which elegantly dresses the moist and slightly shaded areas of the garden, even in winter. Speirantha convallarioides thrives in semi-shade or shade, in any slightly rich soil that remains moist in summer.

Speirantha convallarioides (synonyms Speirantha gardenii, Albuca gardenii) belongs to the asparagaceae or convallariaceae family according to classifications. This botanical species is native to China, where it grows in high-altitude forests, often near watercourses. The plant has a rhizome and  develops slowly, forming a carpet 20-30 cm (8-12in) tall and about 50 cm (20in) wide over time. Rhizomes produce short upright stems with lanceolate, bright green, slightly glossy, 15 cm (6in) long and 5 cm (2in) wide leaves arranged spirally. Flowering takes place a little after Lily of the Valley, in May or June, depending on the climate. The floral spikes develop outside the leafy stems in loose spikes about 10 cm (4in) long, with very small, slightly fragrant flowers that open into white or sometimes pinkish stars with 6 petals. After pollination by insects, it forms small round berries about 5 mm (0in) in diameter.

Plant false lily of the valley on the edge of woodlands, under deciduous trees, as a border or near a pathway to enjoy its delicate flowers. Associate it with small ferns such as Asplenium scolopendrium, Vinca minor periwinkles, wood hyacinths, perennial Bleeding Hearts, or trilliums.