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Veratrum nigrum
Black hellebore
(1 Page of 5)

 
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].



Propagation Notes:  Unless stored in damp sand at around 4°c the seed has a short viability[200]. Where possible it is best to sow the seed in a lightly shaded position in the greenhouse as soon as it is ripe[200]. Stored seed needs to be stratified but can be very slow to germinate. Germination can be erratic even for seed sown when it was fresh, it usually takes place within 3 - 12 months at 15°c but can be much longer[200]. The plant produces just one seedleaf in its first year, this forms an overwintering bulb. It takes up to 10 years for the plant to reach maturity[200]. Sow the seed thinly so there is no need to thin or transplant them, and grow the seedlings on undisturbed in the pot for their first two years of growth. Apply a liquid feed at intervals through the growing season to ensure the plants do not become nutrient deficient. At the end of the second year plant out the dormant plants into individual pots and grow them on in light shade in the greenhouse for a further year or two before planting them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer. Division in March/April or in October. Establish the plants in pots in a shaded frame before planting them out[200]. Division is best carried out in the autumn because the plants come into growth very early in the spring[233]. Root cuttings, 6mm long with a bud, rooted in a sandy soil in a cold frame[200].

For further Veratrum nigrum gardening information
click on one of the blue links below

 
Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses
 

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
View their bibliography
Useful Edible Plants Future

 


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