Helleborus foetidus
Stinking Hellebore
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Stinking Hellebore (Helleborus foetidus) - Description
Helleborus foetidus, known variously as stinking hellebore /ˈhɛlɪbɔːr/, dungwort, and bear's foot, is a species of flowering plant in the buttercup family Ranunculaceae, native to the mountainous regions of Central and Southern Europe, Greece and Asia Minor. It is found wild in many parts of England, especially on limestone soil.
Stinking Hellebore (Helleborus foetidus) - Blooming
Blooming in winter and early spring, the petal-like sepals of the flowers persist several months while the seeds continue to form. You may not get blooms until the third or fourth year.
Stinking Hellebore (Helleborus foetidus) - Growth
Most Hellebores prefer woodland conditions with dappled shade. While they may survive in deep shade, partial light will promote healthier growth and better blooming. Smaller varieties are suitable in rock gardens.
Stinking Hellebore (Helleborus foetidus) - Planting
Dig self-sown seedlings, or divide clumps, in spring or summer to replant. Space 1-1.5" apart. If growing from seed, be prepared for a long germination, as it can take 6-18 months, especially if the seeds are not fresh. Place seeds about 0.25" deep in pots. Add grit to the top of the soil and water occasionally, keeping the soil slightly moist. The germinating seeds need a stratified climate, so if indoors keep at room temperature for 8 weeks and then refrigerate for 8 weeks. You will need to do this if the seeds are shipped from the southern hemisphere in winter.
Stinking Hellebore (Helleborus foetidus) - Pest
Rodents and slugs may eat your Hellebore seeds and seedlings. Aphids also can spread a few diseases, including 'black death' which can cause black spots to appear on the leaves.
Stinking Hellebore (Helleborus foetidus) - Interesting facts
Widely used as a medicine in antiquity, an overdose of Hellebore may have caused the death of Alexander the Great.The Stinking Hellebore is so named due to its pungent smelling foliage. When the leaves are crushed, a strong smell is released which has prompted several interesting common names that reference the plants' smell.
Stinking Hellebore (Helleborus foetidus) - Soil and irrigation
Grow in rich, deep, evenly moist, well-drained, loamy soil. Neutral to slightly alkaline soil usually best, but may vary. Once the plants are established, they become quite drought resistant, but with an ideal bed and regular moisture (without becoming waterlogged) these plants can grow for decades.
