
Hellebore
Helleborus Foetidus
Tolerating deep shade and dry conditions, this winter bloomer offers striking evergreen foliage and unique green flowers.
Size
Installation
About this plant
Unfazed by winter's chill, *Helleborus foetidus*, commonly known as Stinking Hellebore, defies the cold with its remarkable resilience and evergreen presence. Its finely dissected, dark green foliage forms attractive clumps, providing year-round structure and texture to the garden. As winter settles in, this hellebore awakens, producing clusters of nodding, chartreuse-green flowers often tipped with maroon, creating a captivating display when most other plants are dormant. Though its common name suggests an unpleasant aroma, the scent is only noticeable when the leaves are crushed, and the flowers themselves are subtly fragrant. An exceptional choice for challenging shaded areas, *Helleborus foetidus* thrives in dry soil once established, making it a low-maintenance yet elegant addition to woodland gardens, under deciduous trees, or along north-facing walls.
Care & maintenance
Easily grown in average to dry, well-drained soil. Prefers partial to full shade. Remove old, tattered leaves in late winter/early spring just before new growth emerges and flowers appear to improve air circulation and appearance. Generally pest and disease free.
Quick facts
- Type
- perennial
- Mature height
- 1-2 feet
- Mature width
- 1.5-2 feet
- Sun
- Partial Shade to Full Shade
- Water
- Low to Moderate; drought tolerant once established
- Growth rate
- Slow to Moderate