Green false hellebore - Veratrum viride (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Toxic)

Green false hellebore

Also known as: Indian poke, Giant false-helleborine, Tickleweed, Big hellebore, Poor Annie, Duck retten, Indian hellebore

Green false hellebore (Veratrum viride) is a large-leaved, flowering plant native to North America. The plant is notable for its toxicity - its leaves, roots, and stem are poisonous and cause vomiting. Some Native American tribes are known to have chosen their chief through a ritual in which candidates would all eat a portion of the toxic root, and whoever was least affected would become chief.

Scientific classification

Species

Green false hellebore (Veratrum viride)

Lilies, supplejacks and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Weeds

Weed or not

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

70 cm to 2 m

Plant Height

45 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

6 mm to 1 cm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

Images of Green false hellebore

Culture

Symbolism

Scandal

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Toxicity

Green false hellebore is toxic if ingested, affecting dogs, cats, and humans. All parts of the plant contain steroidal alkaloids. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and convulsions in severe cases. It is important to prevent pets and people from consuming green false hellebore. Immediate veterinary care is crucial for pets if ingestion occurs to mitigate health complications.

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Quickly Identify Green false hellebore

Stately plant reaching over 6 feet (183 cm) with robust stem.

Large, broadly oval leaves with pronounced veining and hairy texture.

Small, downy yellow-green flowers in dense clusters on 2 feet (60 cm) stems.

Distinctive three-chambered fruit capsule dehisces into flat seeds.

Verdant-bracted inflorescences with star-shaped flowers in tall clusters.

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Care Guide for Green false hellebore

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Green false hellebore prefers consistently damp, humid environments and thrives in moist, subalpine meadows. Water weekly to sustain growth while maintaining a balance between hydration and drainage. As an herbaceous perennial, green false hellebore requires adequate moisture during its active growing season for vigorous growth.

Fertilize: For green false hellebore, apply balanced nutrition fertilizers in early spring and mid-summer, using small, diluted amounts to prevent root burn. Adjust frequency based on its growth cycle, especially during dormancy, while being cautious of over-fertilization to ensure healthy, lush foliage.

Pruning: Green false hellebore is a herbaceous plant with large leaves and tall flower clusters. Prune in early spring to remove damaged foliage, promoting healthier growth and maintaining shape. Handle with care, as the plant is toxic. Proper pruning enhances aesthetics and overall plant health.

Propagation: Green false hellebore can be propagated through division in Spring and Autumn, its preferred method. While propagation may present challenges, new growth signals success. Maintaining adequate moisture during this period is crucial for optimal results.

Repotting: Repot green false hellebore every 2-3 years, preferably in early spring, using a large container for its root system. Post-repotting, place green false hellebore in dappled sunlight with mildly moist soil to support recovery. While hardy, it needs consistent care afterwards.

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Images of Green false hellebore

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Green false hellebore

Care Guide for Green false hellebore

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