The lily of the valley represents sweetness and the return of happiness. It can also symbolize humility.
Legend[]
One legend explains the affection of a lily of the valley for a nightingale. The nightingale would not come back to the woods until the flowers bloomed in May
Christianity[]
Because of the belief in the healing powers of this plant, it is often known as the "ladder to heaven" or "Jacob's tears." Also, it is considered a sign of Christ's second coming.
The lily of the valley is mentioned in the Song of Solomon in the Bible, too. Legend tells that Mary's tears turned to the lily of the valley when she cried at the cross. This is the reason for the third alternate name, "Mary's tears."
Birth month flower[]
The lily of the valley is the "birth month flower" for May.