Veratrum nigrum Black hellebore (Melanthiaceae)

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Veratrum nigrum
Black hellebore
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The Veratrum nigrum plant species is found in S. Europe to E. Asia. It is a member of the Melanthiaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Black hellebore.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Veratrum nigrum
Common Name:  Black hellebore
Family:  Melanthiaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  All parts of the plant are highly poisonous[178, 200].

Mature Height:  1.5   Mature Width:  0.6

Habitat:  Dry glades and water meadows, mountain slopes, scrub and rarely in broadleaved woods in Siberia[74].

Cultivation Notes: Requires a deep fertile moisture retentive humus-rich soil[200]. Succeeds in full sun if the soil does not dry out but prefers a position in semi-shade[200]. Dislikes dry soils[42]. Grows best in a cool woodland garden or a north facing border[42]. Plants are hardy to about -25°c[187], especially if they are given a protective mulch in the winter. The flowers smell of rotten fruit and are visited by flies[187]. Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer[233]. Plants are long-lived and can be left in the same position for years without attention[233].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

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