What plant is lily of the valley
The lily of the valley, which is popular in the courtyard green plant and cut flower market, has captured countless plant lovers with its elegant bell-shaped flowers. This plant, which is given the meaning of "happy return", has unexpected characteristics hidden. This article will comprehensively analyze the unique charm and potential risks of lily of the valley from botanical characteristics to practical maintenance. 1. Analysis of the botany characteristics of lily flowers 1.1 Taxonomic attributes and geographical distribution As a perennial herb of the genus Lilies of the Asparagaceae, lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis) is widely distributed in temperate regions around the world. Native to the forest areas of the northern hemisphere, it has now been cultivated on a large scale in Northeast China, North China, Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces. 1.2 Typical morphological characteristics The plant height is 10-30cm, the ovate-shaped lanceolate leaves are 7-20cm long, and the white bell-shaped flowers blooming from May to June are the most recognizable. The berries are bright red with a diameter of 6-12mm and are very ornamental when they mature in September. 2. Key points for cultivation and management of lily of the valley 2.1 Light and temperature regulation semi-shaded environment is an ideal state for its growth, and 60% of the light needs to be shaded in summer. The optimal temperature is 15-22℃. If it exceeds 28℃, ventilation and cooling are needed. 2.2 Soil and nutrient management prefers slightly acidic sandy loam (pH 5.5 -6.5). When planting, it is recommended to mix humus soil and river sand (ratio 3:1), and add 100g of bone meal per square meter as base fertilizer. 3. Toxicity mechanism and protection of lily of the valley 3.1 The toxic characteristics of the entire strain contain 38 cardiac glycoside toxins, with convallatoxin being the most deadly. One gram of fresh leaves may cause poisoning in adults, and the toxic concentration of berries is as high as 0.5mg/g. 3.2 Symptoms of poisoning and symptoms such as nausea and irregular heart rhythm will appear 2-6 hours after handling accidental food. If you are found to have eaten by mistake, you should induce vomiting immediately and bring plant samples to seek medical treatment. 4. Gardening application and cultural value The flower phrase "happy return" originates from European legends. France has a tradition of giving each other lilies of the valley on May 1. When creating understory landscapes, you can use ferns. It is recommended to use pottery pots with a diameter of more than 20cm for potted plants.
After fully understanding the characteristics of lily of the valley, this plant, which combines ornamental and dangerous properties, can add natural beauty to our lives while taking protective measures. It is recommended that families place them out of reach of children when planting, and wash their hands promptly after processing cut flowers, so that they can safely enjoy this gift from the forest.