Lily of the Valley Meaning and magickal uses
Also called May Lily, Mary's Tears, Ladder to Heaven, Convallaria
A sweet, nodding spring bell for peace, happiness and a clear mind; toxic, handle gently.
- Element
- Air
- Planet
- Mercury
- Zodiac
- Gemini
- Day
- Wednesday
- Moon phase
- Waxing Crescent
- Parts used
- Flowers (for display and scent only)
How to use it
- Beltane posy
Set a small vase of lily of the valley on your Beltane altar to welcome the joy of early summer. Keep the vase out of reach of pets and children, and wash your hands after arranging it.
- Calm mind
Sit near the flowers and breathe their scent for a few slow minutes before studying or writing. Picture a quiet valley and let your thoughts settle before you begin.
- Happiness charm
Instead of using the plant itself, press a printed picture of lily of the valley into your Book of Shadows with a wish for a happy, peaceful home. Revisit it every May.
History and folklore
Lily of the valley blooms in shady woods in May, and in France a sprig of muguet is still given on May Day for happiness. Christian legend says the flowers grew from Mary's tears at the cross, while older tales call them ladders for fairies to climb. Its sweet scent was prized by perfumers, and it has long been carried in bridal bouquets. In witchcraft it is linked with Mercury, a calm mind and the simple happiness of early summer.
A sweet, nodding spring bell for peace, happiness and a clear mind; toxic, handle gently.
- Intentions: Peace, Wisdom, Love
- Element: Air
- Planet: Mercury
- Zodiac: Gemini
- Day: Wednesday
- Moon phase: Waxing Crescent
- Parts used: Flowers (for display and scent only)
Safety: All parts of lily of the valley are toxic if swallowed, including the red berries and even the water flowers have stood in. It is toxic to cats, dogs and horses (ASPCA list). Never eat it or use it in teas or food spells. Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin, wash your hands after handling, and keep vases away from children and pets.
How to use it
- Beltane posy. Set a small vase of lily of the valley on your Beltane altar to welcome the joy of early summer. Keep the vase out of reach of pets and children, and wash your hands after arranging it.
- Calm mind. Sit near the flowers and breathe their scent for a few slow minutes before studying or writing. Picture a quiet valley and let your thoughts settle before you begin.
- Happiness charm. Instead of using the plant itself, press a printed picture of lily of the valley into your Book of Shadows with a wish for a happy, peaceful home. Revisit it every May.
Works well with: Beltane, White Candle, Wednesday, Moonstone, Air
Folklore
Lily of the valley blooms in shady woods in May, and in France a sprig of muguet is still given on May Day for happiness. Christian legend says the flowers grew from Mary's tears at the cross, while older tales call them ladders for fairies to climb. Its sweet scent was prized by perfumers, and it has long been carried in bridal bouquets. In witchcraft it is linked with Mercury, a calm mind and the simple happiness of early summer.
The Witch's Cabinet is a free reference for your practice. Correspondences are traditional associations, not medical advice. Always follow the safety notes, especially with herbs and essential oils around children, pets and during pregnancy.