black hellebore
Helleborus niger
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Hardiness Zone:
3 - 8
Flowers:
White fading to blush pink with yellow stamens Flowers
Sun:
Part shade,full shade
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Low
Poisonous To Humans:
Yes
Poisonous To Pets:
Yes
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Black hellebore should be watered once the soil is semi-dry, meaning the upper layer of potting soil is dry but the bottom layer is still moist. During the hot summer months, water once every week or 2. During cooler times of the year, water every month or so. Be careful to not overwater the plant as this can cause root rot. Aim to keep the soil slightly moist but not soggy or saturated.
sunlight
Black hellebore (Helleborus niger) thrives best in part to full shade, meaning it should receive no more than 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. This species prefers the afternoon sun, so placing it in an area that gets sun in the morning and shade in the afternoon is ideal. Too much sunlight can cause the leaves to turn yellow and make the flowers less vibrant. These plants are perfect for a shady patio or garden, and can even be grown indoors.
pruning
Black hellebore plants benefit from light pruning in late winter or early spring. Use pruning shears to remove dead leaves and stems. For fuller plants, remove about 1-third of the stems, cutting them off at the base of the plant. Make sure not to prune more than a third of the plant at any 1 time. With any pruning, take care not to damage the plant's crown. Light soil cultivation and removal of weeds around the crown of the plant every spring will also help maintain its health.
