Family: Asparagaceae
Canada bead-ruby, Canada mayflower, wild lily-of-the-valley
[Smilacina canadensis (Desf.) Pursh, more...]
Etymology: Maianthemum: from Maius for "May" and anthemon for "flower"
Plants: erect, perennial, 4"-6" tall forb; stems not branched below the flowers
Leaves: 1 to 2, alternate, oval to oblong with pointed tips and heart-shaped bases, mostly hairless beneath
Flowers: white, 4-parted, 3/8" wide, starry; inflorescence 1"- 2 1/2", narrow, terminal cluster of stalked flowers (raceme); blooms May-June
Fruits: round, green-dotted berry, ripens to deep red
Habitat: moist; woods, forests
Conservation Status: Native
Plants: erect, perennial, 4"-6" tall forb; stems not branched below the flowers
Leaves: 1 to 2, alternate, oval to oblong with pointed tips and heart-shaped bases, mostly hairless beneath
Flowers: white, 4-parted, 3/8" wide, starry; inflorescence 1"- 2 1/2", narrow, terminal cluster of stalked flowers (raceme); blooms May-June
Fruits: round, green-dotted berry, ripens to deep red
Habitat: moist; woods, forests
Conservation Status: Native
Flora of North America: Flora of North America USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos
