stinking hellebore

Stinking hellebore (Helleborus foetidus 'Sienna') should be watered when the top inch of soil has started to dry out. A general rule of thumb is to water it about once a week during its active growing season in the Springtime and every 2 weeks or so during the Summer. Avoid wetting the foliage when watering. The soil should be slightly moist, and it is not necessary to soak the plant. As the plant will enter its dormant stage in the late Summer and Fall months, it will not require as much water.

Stinking hellebore (Helleborus foetidus 'Sienna') does best in full or partial sunlight. For best growth, the plant should have approximately 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. If your plant is growing in a shadier spot, you can compensate by opting for a smaller pot size to ensure it receives enough light and provisions. Planting in a sun-dappled spot (areas with more shade) allows for a more even amount of sun throughout the day without any direct sunlight.

Stinking Hellebore (Helleborus foetidus 'Sienna') should be pruned in early to mid-summer. Prune away any diseased, dead or damaged leaves and flower stems, and also any stems that are sparsely covered with foliage. Be careful to avoid cutting too much away and trying to preserve the natural shape of the plant as much as possible. Prune away all flower stems after flowering is complete. Prune lightly in subsequent years to encourage more blooms.