Species stinking hellebore
light green flowers with light green stems and lanceolate, light green leaves

stinking hellebore

Helleborus foetidus 'Pontarlier'

Stinking hellebore (Helleborus foetidus 'Pontarlier') is a perennial flowering shrub native to the Mediterranean region. This plant’s most distinctive feature is its unique foul odor, which is strong enough to be perceived even when not in bloom. Its sweet-smelling flowers, however, make up for the bad smell when in full bloom in late winter or early spring. The flowers are usually a white or green color, with each bloom containing six petals. Stinking hellebore is a great choice for gardens seeking a unique species that adds an element of surprise when in full bloom.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 9

Flowers:

Greenish-white Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Deep shade, Filtered shade, Part sun/part shade

Soil:

Humus rich, Well-drained

Fruits:

green,brown Fruits In Summer Ready In Winter

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Low

Poisonous To Humans:

Yes

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Stinking hellebore (Helleborus foetidus 'Pontarlier') should be watered as needed. In general, water once a week during the growing season (April to August), and less often during winter. Water the soil evenly but lightly and avoid over-watering. Allow the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry out before watering and avoid waterlogging the soil. For best results, use a watering can with a diffuser or water slowly to avoid splashing or disturbing the soil surface.

sunlight

Stinking hellebore (Helleborus foetidus 'Pontarlier') is a perennial plant that prefers bright, but indirect sunlight. It should be placed in a spot where it gets several hours of morning sunlight and is in shade during the hottest parts of the day. This plant should not be exposed to more than 4-5 hours of intense sunlight each day. In the winter months, when the daylight hours are shorter, stinking hellebore might appreciate a few more hours of sunlight, as long as it is not direct.

pruning

Stinking hellebore (Helleborus foetidus 'Pontarlier') should be pruned once a year, in late winter or early spring. Pruning should involve the removal of any old, dead or damaged stems, as well as any spindly or overcrowded stems. This will encourage good air circulation and allow light and nutrients to reach all parts of the plant. After pruning, apply a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy new growth. Prune no more than 1-third of the total branches at 1 time, as it will not be able to handle drastic changes without damage.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Helleborus foetidus 'Pontarlier' typically starts flowering in late winter or early spring, usually between February and April.

Starts Flowering

Helleborus foetidus 'Pontarlier' typically starts flowering in late winter or early spring, usually between February and April.

Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Helleborus foetidus 'Pontarlier' is in July and August.

Hardiness Map