Ideal in light or even full shade, lily-of-the-valley is blessed with masses of tiny white bell-shaped flowers that possess a sweet, intoxicating scent in late spring. Rising up to 20cm on arching stems, which contrast spectacularly with its clumps of dark green foliage, this hardy perennial is native to alpine meadows and does best in moist soil. A cottage garden staple, the perfumed bell-flowers of Lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis) open in April and May and are a welcome addition to any border or patio pot. Spreading via a network of underground roots, the spring shoots are referred to as 'pips' and sit just beneath the surface of the soil before bursting into bloom. Perfect for dappled shade, Lily of the Valley makes a good groundcover plant, naturalising happily and brightening gloomy gardens, and even better, it makes a great cutflower to bring into your home. It's ideal for brightening up a shady border or will spread happily to make a perfumed carpet of colour under trees