Convallaria

When bare, shady spots threaten to derail a landscape design, look to these traditional shade-loving favorites for inspiration. Convallaria, or Lily-of-the-Valley as it is commonly called, can quickly brighten and lighten even the darkest borders, beds or those awkward areas under trees and between bushes, with rich green foliage and an abundance of small, bell-shaped blooms. Plus, convallaria boasts a heady fragrance that attracts casual passersby to come take a closer look. A great container plant, they also do well as a flowering ground cover. Several varieties to choose from will give you a range of colors, sizes and forms with which to work.