Stinking hellebore (Helleborus foetidus)

Stinking hellebore

Stinking hellebore (Helleborus foetidus) is an evergreen perennial that can grow to 61 cm tall. It blooms from winter to spring with clusters of fragrant, yellowish green, cup-shaped flowers. Attractive light green foliage and flowers grow in a weeping form. Leaves have an unpleasant smell when crushed giving this plant the name stinking hellebore. It thrives in rich, well-drained soil in a semi-shady location.

Scientific classification

Species

Stinking hellebore (Helleborus foetidus)

Buttercups, poppies and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial, Annual, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Green, Yellow

Leaf Color

2 cm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

Green, Purple, Yellow, Cream

Flower Color

Green, Purple

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Images of Stinking hellebore

Distribution of Stinking hellebore

Distribution Map

Stinking hellebore is native to western Europe and Morocco. It grows naturally in limestone-heavy areas and mountainous woodlands where shade and moisture are both plentiful. It has spread to Austria, Czech Republic and Slovak.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woods, scrub and sunny banks on moist chalk and limestone soils

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

The evergreen stinking hellebore, with its long dark green-and-blue leaves, is most appreciated for its ability to self-propagate into an attractive ground cover in shady areas. It is also suitable for the ‘filler’ element in container arrangements, especially when paired with tall, colorfully blooming plants in shades of purple or yellow.

Symbolism

Scandal

Name Story

Stinking hellebore: Although it has the word "stinking" in its common name, it is not noticeably malodorous. This word is given to the plant because of the pungent smell produced when the foliage is crushed. Therefore, this plant is called stinking hellebore.

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Toxicity

All parts of stinking hellebore are moderately toxic. Ingesting stinking hellebore can induce symptoms like burning sensation, vomiting, diarrhea, and depression in humans, dogs, and cats. The toxins can have adverse interactions with certain medications. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if pets ingest stinking hellebore to minimize health risks. Stinking hellebore may cause discomfort and illness in cats upon contact. Seek vet care promptly in suspected poisoning cases. For humans, the plant's toxins exacerbate the effects when combined with beta-blockers, steroids, or chemotherapy drugs.

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Quickly Identify Stinking hellebore

Bell-shaped, nodding flowers with yellow-green hue and maroon edging.

Palmate leaves with 7-10 lanceolate leaflets emitting distinct odor when crushed.

Stout stem emerging as a rhizome, 0.2-0.6 inches (5-15 mm) thick, occasionally reddish.

Distinct fleshy fruit capsules with long, beaked protrusions, encased by persistent sepals.

5-parted, green flowers flushed with purple, measuring 3-4 inches (7-10 cm) in diameter.

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Care Guide for Stinking hellebore

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Stinking hellebore thrives in European woodlands, preferring consistent moisture but tolerating short droughts. Weekly watering maintains hydration. Predominantly grown outdoors, stinking hellebore withstands cold temperatures, enhancing its hardiness as an evergreen plant.

Fertilize: To enhance stinking hellebore's health, apply balanced fertilizer biannually in early spring and midsummer. Young stinking hellebore benefits from light feedings, while mature plants require moderate amounts. Use slow-release fertilizers carefully, avoiding application near the base to prevent root burn and ensure optimal growth.

Pruning: The evergreen perennial stinking hellebore should be pruned from early to late spring. Remove spent stems and damaged leaves while cutting back older foliage to maintain health. Proper timing of pruning promotes fresh growth and prevents disease, resulting in a robust and attractive plant.

Propagation: Stinking hellebore thrives in shaded gardens and can be easily multiplied by sowing seeds extracted from capsules post-flowering. For best germination, maintain consistent moisture and a stable environment. After sprouting, ensure regular watering and protection from extreme conditions until seedlings become resilient.

Repotting: Repot your stinking hellebore every 2-3 years after winter dormancy to support its growth. Use a slightly larger, well-draining pot for optimal root development. Post-repotting care includes providing shade, moderate watering, and avoiding over-fertilization for a healthy stinking hellebore.

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Images of Stinking hellebore

Distribution of Stinking hellebore

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Stinking hellebore

Care Guide for Stinking hellebore

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