Lily of the Valley is the super-hardy, highly scented early spring plant that makes a lovely green mat in any moist shady spot, spreading every year. The foliage is sort of like a solid green miniature Hosta, and you know the flowers. One of the great things about Lily of the Valley is the way the foliage stays rich and green all summer long. If you've never seen them before, don't be shocked by the tiny roots called pips. They're supposed to be that small, and are a snap to grow.