Western Lily of the Valley (Maianthemum dilatatum)

Western lily of the valley is a common understory plant of shady, moist forests along the Pacific coast. It is an attractive, low-growing perennial groundcover, with glossy, heart-shaped leaves that emerge in early spring, creating a dense carpet over the forest floor. Spikes of small white flowers appear in late spring, followed by berries in the summer that are mottled green and red, and later ripening to a deep, translucent red. The leaves die back completely by winter, but the berries persist, providing food for wildlife. This plant spreads vigorously through rhizomes, so be sure to plant it in an area where you don't mind it taking over!

Sun Exposure: Full shade to part shade
Soil & Moisture: Moist, humus-rich soil
Mature Size: 4"-12" tall, spreads through rhizomes
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
Edible: No
Wildlife Value: Attracts beneficial insects and pollinators. Berries are eaten by birds and other wildlife.
Native Range & Habitat: Moist forests, shady streambanks from low to middle elevations. Native to western North America from Alaska, south to California.
Other Names: False lily of the valley