Maianthemum stellatum ‘Blue Dune’

(syn: Smilacina stellata) Maianthemum ‘Blue Dune’ is a 2008 Plant Delights/JLBG introduction of an amazing, heat-tolerant form of the native deciduous groundcover. I’m fascinated why this isn’t more widely cultivated, considering that it’s native to all of the continental US except the southeastern “gang of 8 states,” from NC across to Texas. Maianthemum stellatum makes a tough groundcover with 20″ stems arising from the underground rhizomes. Each stem is clothed with 15-18 blue-green leaves that are spirally arranged around the stem. From mid-April until mid-May, the stalks are topped with short but attractive spikes of small white flowers. Although Maianthemum stellatum loves moisture, it is incredibly drought-tolerant. This selection is from the Indiana Dunes region.