Black Hellebore
(Helleborus niger)
Black Hellebore (Helleborus niger)
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Isiwal
CC BY-SA 3.0
Image By:
Isiwal
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Copyright:
CC BY-SA 3.0
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Photo by: Isiwal | License Type: CC BY-SA 3.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 | Uploader: Isiwal | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Schneerose_Helleborus_niger_Spital_a_Pyhrn.jpg | Notes: {{Information |Description ={{en|1=''Helleborus niger''}} {{fr|1=Rose de Noël}} |Source ={{own}} |Author =[[User:Meneerke bloem|Meneerke bloem]] |Date =2012-03-15 |Permission = |other_versions = }} [[Category:Hellebor... |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Helleborus niger, commonly known as Christmas Rose or Black Hellebore, is an evergreen perennial herb native to the mountainous woodlands and forest clearings of Central Europe and the Alps. It typically grows 9–12 inches (23–30 cm) tall, with dark, leathery, pedate leaves. The plant is celebrated for its large, flat flowers that appear from midwinter to early spring, usually white but may have a pink tinge. The flowers are particularly notable for their central boss of yellow stamens, with petal tips that can be flushed pink or green. Black Hellebore is a cherished addition to cottage gardens due to its ability to bloom in winter when few other plants flower. Cultivars with larger flowers, pink hues, and double-flowered forms have been developed to enhance its ornamental value.
Black Hellebore thrives in moist, humus-rich, alkaline soil and prefers dappled shade, making it suitable for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and underplanting in deciduous tree canopies. It is appreciated for its early flowering period and is often used to provide interest during the winter months. While it can be challenging to grow, it benefits from the addition of leaf-mould to improve soil structure and the application of lime to reduce soil acidity. In cultivation, it requires part shade to full shade, consistent moisture, and well-draining soil. Despite its beauty, gardeners should be aware that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, and it can suffer from hellebore leaf spot, a fungal disease.CC BY-SA 4.0
Black Hellebore thrives in moist, humus-rich, alkaline soil and prefers dappled shade, making it suitable for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and underplanting in deciduous tree canopies. It is appreciated for its early flowering period and is often used to provide interest during the winter months. While it can be challenging to grow, it benefits from the addition of leaf-mould to improve soil structure and the application of lime to reduce soil acidity. In cultivation, it requires part shade to full shade, consistent moisture, and well-draining soil. Despite its beauty, gardeners should be aware that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, and it can suffer from hellebore leaf spot, a fungal disease.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 0.8-1 feet
- Width: 1-1.5 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: White
- Flowering Season: Winter, Spring
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Border Plant, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Groundcover, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Mountainous woodlands and forest clearings
Other Names
Common Names: Black Hellebore , Schwarze Nieswurz , Christrose , Ellébore Noir , Julros
Scientific Names: Helleborus niger
GBIF Accepted Name: Helleborus niger L.