Garden Surprise: Lily of the Valley

I'm always so surprised when I find plants in my garden that aren't weeds. Especially plants that I didn't plant. These tiny little lily of the valley popped up again way way back in the shadiest parts of the yard. A few are popping up underneath hostas. I don't even find weeds in the dense shade underneath hosts. They've also popped up underneath the arborvitae where there's nothing but a bunch of dead leaves. 

 These tiny little flowers are so delicate and beautiful. They smell great, too. So what's not to love?

 Well, just like striking foxglove, they're highly poisonous. Have you ever read a list of poisonous plants like this one or this one? Hydrangeas? Really? It makes you wonder why you don't hear of more deaths by plant. 

I've heard some parents say it's better to have your kids see this stuff up close so they know not to eat it instead of coming across it in someone else's garden. I'm not sure about that, but I haven't pulled up the lily of the valley or the foxglove just yet. I'll just keep repeating myself over and over again all spring and summer, "don't put anything in your mouth unless you ask me first!" I'll do that until I either relax a little or decide it's not worth the worry and pull up the plants. 

How do you feel about growing potentially harmful plants in your garden? Is it worth the risk or not? 

p.s. I've linked up to my first ever link party at Fishtail Cottage Garden Party!