Scientific Name
Helleborus niger L.
Common Name(s)
Christmas Rose, Black Hellebore, Black Helleborus
Scientific Classification
Family: Ranunculaceae
Subfamily: Ranunculoideae
Tribe: Helleboreae
Genus: Helleborus
Flower
Color: White
Bloom Time: Midwinter to early spring
Description
Helleborus niger is an evergreen perennial with dark green, leathery pedate leaves carried on stems. It grows up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall.
The flowers are large, flat, white or occasionally pink, and up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) across. They are borne on short stems from midwinter to early spring.
How to Grow and Care
When planting from seed or division, place the Hellebore into well-draining, organic soil in filtered sun or shady location. The Hellebore plant will return for many years; ensure the space will accommodate growth and has proper sunlight.
Hellebores need no more than a few hours of dappled light and grow successfully in shady areas. Plant the Hellebore under deciduous trees or scattered through a woodland garden or shaded natural area.
Soaking the soil in which the Hellebore is growing helps the Hellebore plant to look its best. Hellebore care includes the removal of older leaves when they appear damaged. Care for Hellebores should also include careful fertilization. Too much nitrogen may result in lush foliage and a shortage of blooms.
Plant Hellebore seeds in the fall. A 60-day moist chilling period is needed when planting seeds of the Hellebore plant. Planting seeds in fall allows this to happen naturally in areas with cold winters. Wait three to four years for blooms on young plants grown from seed. Divide overgrown clumps in spring, after flowering, or in fall.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Hellebores.
Origin
Helleborus niger is native to southern Europe and Asia.
Links
- Back to genus Helleborus
- Plantpedia: Browse flowering plants by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, or Origin
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