Convallaria rosea

Few sights can equal an early spring display of cheery pink bells, wonderfully fragrant and so colorful. Gardeners have longed for this bright companion to the taller white lily of the valley, and at long last, you can now plant this beauty in all those shady spots that need a little oomph—under tall leggy plants, in the shade of tall trees, or in the bare patches where groundcover has not yet wakened from its winter sleep.

Just 7 inches tall, this plant sports broad, fresh green foliage and thin flower stalks, each bearing a dozen or so fat bells dangling from curved stems. It is a spreading perennial that forms extensive colonies, a perfect groundcover. A lovely choice for indoor color, too, its perfume is sweet but never overwhelming. Hardy all the way to Zone 3, this dainty delight is a long-lived treat you will look forward to as each winter ends.