Canada mayflower is a low growing wildflower that features small white blossoms and flourishes in woody areas. It grows to 10 to 25 cm tall and can be found in the Northeast areas of North America. Because it spreads by rhizomes, it can often be found in a carpet-like mass.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Maianthemum canadense (Canadian may-lily, Canada mayflower, false lily-of-the-valley, Canadian lily-of-the-valley, wild lily-of-the-valley, two-leaved Solomon’s seal) is an understory perennial flowering plant, native to Canada and the northeastern United States, from Yukon and British Columbia east to Newfoundland, into St. Pierre and Miquelon.
Plants grow to 10–25 cm (4–10 in) tall, arising from branching rhizomes that have roots only at the nodes. Plants may be one-leaved and without fruiting structures (sterile). the fertile, flowering shoots have 2–3 leaves.
Leaves
The leaf blades are 4.5–9 cm (2–4 in) long by 3–5.5 cm (1–2 in) wide with a pointed tip. The lowest leaves are usually egg-shaped with two lobes at the base and a narrow space (sinus) between the lobes. Upper leaves are usually heart-shaped and set on a short 1–7 mm long petiole.
Flowering clusters
The clusters of 12–25 starry-shaped, white flowers are set in a complex raceme – an unbranched flowering cluster that has 1-3 (usually 2) stalked flowers per node, set at roughly equal distances along a central axis. The lowest flowers open first. The flower stalks (pedicels) are 3–7 mm long and thin (0.2-0.5 mm wide).
Flowers and fruits
The flowers are produced from spring to mid summer. They have four conspicuous, white, 1.5–2 mm long tepals. The fruit is a berry containing one or two round seeds. The berries are 4–6 mm across, mottled red in early summer and turning deep red by mid summer. A seed is produced infrequently and most plants in a location are vegetative clones, spreading by their shallow, trailing, white rhizomes.
Primarily a boreal forest understory species, but also found at low elevation sites in the Rocky Mountains, to 1800 m. It is associated with moist woods but is also found in sandy pine woods in the north and can persist in clearings.
Similar species
Although most Maianthemum have flower parts in sets of three, M. canadense plants have flowers with four tepals and four stamens, as in the very closely related Maianthemum bifolium and Maianthemum dilatatum. The range of these species do not overlap. M. bifolium is found in temperate Eurasia, and M. dilatatum is essentially a coastal species found from Alaska south to northwest California as well as Mongolia to Japan. Maianthemum trifolium is also a small herb and has a distribution similar to M. canadense, but the flower parts are in sets of 3s, the leaf bases are tapered, not heart-shaped; it is found in wet habitat such as bogs.
II. How to Grow and Care
Canada mayflower is a low-maintenance plant, thriving in shaded to partially shaded areas with cool, moist, well-draining soil. It is crucial to keep the soil consistently moist without overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Canada mayflower does not generally require fertilization, but an annual application of compost can encourage healthier growth.
Sunlight and Soil
Performs best in part shade in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Tolerates heavy shade. Moist to slightly dry, humus-rich soils are preferred. Intolerant of heat and humidity.
Watering
Originating from the understory of North American forests, canada mayflower thrives in moist, well-drained soil with consistent humidity. It exhibits a preference for evenly moist conditions, indicative of its native habitat’s damp environment. Watering should occur once every two weeks to maintain this balance. As an herbaceous perennial that naturally carpets forest floors, canada mayflower is more commonly grown outdoors where it can emulate its native setting by forming lush green mats. During its active growth period in spring and early summer, ensuring adequate moisture is crucial for sustaining its delicate, ground-covering foliage.
Fertilizing
For canada mayflower, utilize balanced nutrition fertilizers with equal NPK ratios, ensuring consistent nutrient availability. In spring, fertilize bimonthly to support vigorous growth and rhizome development. Reduce to once a month during summer when growth peaks, keeping dosage moderate to avoid over-fertilization that can harm delicate roots. Avoid fertilization in fall and winter as canada mayflower enters dormancy. Fertilization promotes health, enhances flowering, and fortifies canada mayflower against stress. Apply fertilizers carefully, avoiding direct contact with foliage. For efficiency, water soil before and after application to aid nutrient absorption.
Propagation
Canada mayflower propagates easily through division, ideally during spring or autumn. The main method involves separating rhizomes, ensuring each has healthy roots. Signs of successful propagation include new growth and a strong root system. Make sure to provide adequate moisture to support initial development.
Transplanting
The ideal period to transplant canada mayflower is between S1-S2, when the weather is moderately cool, fostering strong root development. The best transplant spot is one with abundant shade and well-draining soil. Remember, canada mayflower prefers its root ball undisturbed; so, gentle handling during transplanting is recommended.
III. Uses and Benefits
Canada mayflower works well in informal cottage gardens that have a good amount of shade. Since this plant grows abundantly and aggressively, it makes an excellent decorative ground cover. It’s especially showy in the spring and summer when the blooms and berries grow. Birds and bees are also drawn to this plant.