Side-by-side plant comparison — which is right for your garden?
Convallaria majalis
Asparagaceae · flowers
Nymphaea spp.
Nymphaeaceae · aquatic
Lily of the Valley (Zones 3-8)
Water Lily (Zones 3-11)
Overlap: Both grow in zones 3–8
| Feature | Lily of the Valley | Water Lily |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Convallaria majalis | Nymphaea spp. |
| Family | Asparagaceae | Nymphaeaceae |
| Category | flowers | aquatic |
| Sun | ⛅ Part Shade to Full Shade | ☀️ Full Sun |
| Water | 💧💧 Medium | 💧 Aquatic |
| Soil | Rich, Moist | Pond/Water garden |
| Height | 8" | 6" |
| Spread | 1' | 4' |
| Bloom Season | Spring | Summer |
| Bloom Color | White | White, Pink, Yellow, Red |
| Growth Rate | Medium | Medium |
| Native Region | Europe, Asia | Worldwide |
| Maintenance | Low | Medium |
Lily of the Valley
Water Lily
Lily of the Valley
Water Lily
Choose Lily of the Valley if you want a low-maintenance plant, and want deer resistance. It thrives in part shade to full shade with medium water in zones 3–8.
Choose Water Lily if you don't mind medium maintenance, and want deer resistance. It thrives in full sun with aquatic water in zones 3–11.
Plant them together? Both overlap in zones 3–8. However, they have different sun needs, so plan your garden layout carefully.
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