Species black hellebore
Helleborus 'Red Racer'; small, toothed, green leaves, green stems and golden brown to burgundy flowers with creamy stamens

black hellebore

Helleborus niger

Helleborus niger, more commonly known as the black hellebore, is an evergreen perennial with glossy, leathery leaves. This plant is native to parts of Europe and is rare throughout its natural range. It bears nodding white or pale pink flowers in winter or early spring. The dark foliage and blackish stems add an intriguing contrast to garden beds and borders. The plants are highly toxic if ingested, so should be kept away from children and pets. However, with its stunning silhouette and profusion of petals, it is a beautiful addition to any outdoor space.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Root Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

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.

Season

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

Helleborus niger typically starts flowering in late winter or early spring, usually between January and March.

Starts Flowering

Helleborus niger typically starts flowering in late winter or early spring, usually between January and March.

Hardiness Map