Stinking hellebore Helleborus foetidus Wester Flisk Group
ABOUT
The plant known as the stinking hellebore, specifically the Wester Flisk Group, is a distinctive perennial with a number of features that make it quite notable. It has rich, leathery, dark green leaves that are palmately divided into narrow, pointed segments, giving them a somewhat jagged appearance. These leaves are carried on sturdy, upright stems, providing a robust structural aspect to the plant. In terms of its blossoms, the stinking hellebore produces bell-shaped flowers which are typically a combination of green and red colors. The flowers have a nodding habit, meaning they tend to hang downwards, and form large clusters at the top of the stems, above the foliage. The edge of each petal may have a reddish tinge while the main body is often a pale, greenish hue. The contrast between the dark foliage and the lighter flowers can be quite striking in a garden setting. Another notable feature of the stinking hellebore is the unique odor it emits, which is not typically considered pleasant, hence the common name "stinking." This scent is especially noticeable when the leaves are crushed or when the plant is handled. Despite its pungent smell, this plant is often appreciated for its ability to flower in the winter or early spring when few other plants are in bloom, offering a splash of color in otherwise dreary gardens.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae.
Synonyms
Stinking Hellebore, Bear's Foot, Setterwort.
Common names
Helleborus foetidus Wester Flisk Group.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as stinking hellebore is toxic to humans if ingested. The toxicity is due to various compounds, including glycosides and alkaloids, that can cause a range of symptoms. If any part of the plant is ingested, the person might experience abdominal pain, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, and possibly depression of the central nervous system. In severe cases, it could lead to bradycardia or cardiac arrest. Contact with the skin can also result in irritation or dermatitis. It is crucial to handle this plant with care and seek medical attention immediately if ingestion is suspected.
To pets
Stinking hellebore is also toxic to pets, with dogs and cats being susceptible to the plant's poisonous compounds. Ingesting any part of the plant can lead to gastrointestinal upset, including drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. More severe symptoms may include a slowed heart rate, nervous system depression, and in extreme cases, possibly seizures or death. If you suspect your pet has ingested stinking hellebore, it is important to contact a veterinarian immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Green
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Helleborus foetidus (commonly known as Bear's-foot) is appreciated for its attractive foliage and early-spring blooms that add beauty to gardens.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, the Bear's-foot exhibits good resistance to drought, making it suitable for xeriscaping or low-water gardens.
- Shade Tolerance: This plant can thrive in partial to full shade, offering a solution for underplanting in wooded areas or north-facing gardens.
- Deer and Rabbit Resistance: Bear's-foot is generally resistant to deer and rabbits, helping to prevent damage to the garden from these animals.
- Long Lasting Blooms: It has a prolonged flowering period, often from late winter into spring, providing color when few other plants are in bloom.
- Low Maintenance: Bear's-foot requires minimal care once established, making it an easy addition for busy gardeners.
- Winter Interest: Its evergreen foliage and ability to bloom in the cooler months adds interest to the garden during the winter.
- Erosion Control: The plant can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes and in areas with loose soil.
- Pollinator Attraction: Early blooms can provide an early food source for bees and other pollinators awakening in the spring.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Ornamental Use: Hellebore, specifically the 'Wester Flisk Group', is commonly used in shaded garden areas for its attractive foliage and early-spring flowers.
- Winter Interest: The plant is valued for its ability to bloom in winter, providing colour and interest in gardens during the colder months.
- Landscape Design: Its strikingly dissected, evergreen leaves and red-rimmed, green flowers are used for contrast in landscape compositions.
- Floral Arrangements: Cut flowers from the Hellebore are sometimes used in floral arrangements, especially for winter or early-spring displays.
- Wildlife Habitat: Hellebores can provide early-season nectar and pollen for bees and other insects when few other food sources are available.
- Drought-Tolerant Plantings: Due to its resilience, the Hellebore is suitable for use in drought-resistant garden designs.
- Erosion Control: The plant’s dense root system can help to stabilize soil and prevent erosion in sloped garden areas.
- Shade Tolerance: Hellebores, including the 'Wester Flisk Group', are particularly well-suited for deep shade areas where other plants might not thrive.
- Ground Cover: When planted in mass, Hellebores can serve as an effective ground cover, suppressing weeds and retaining soil moisture.
- Frost Resistant: The plant’s resistance to frost makes it a valuable addition to gardens in cooler climates that experience harsh winters.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Stinking Hellebore is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Stinking Hellebore is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: Helleborus foetidus, commonly known as the stinking hellebore, is often associated with protection because it was believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits and ancient curses when planted near homes.
- Healing: Despite its toxic nature, the stinking hellebore was used in traditional medicine, symbolizing the duality of healing and harm, reflecting the ancient doctrine of signatures.
- Conquest over adversity: The plant blooms in winter, pushing through the frozen ground, making it a symbol of resilience and the ability to overcome difficult conditions.
- Scandal and controversy: Given its common name "stinking" and the unpleasant smell it emits, the stinking hellebore can symbolize a distasteful or scandalous situation that is best avoided.
WaterThe Stinking Hellebore, commonly referred to, prefers consistent moisture but is drought tolerant once established. Water the plant deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which might roughly translate to once a week during active growth seasons, such as spring and fall. Decrease watering frequency during the winter when the plant is dormant. Generally, mature Stinking Hellebore may require about 1 gallon of water per plant each watering, ensuring it reaches the roots without oversaturating the soil to prevent rot. Avoid overhead watering to minimize the risk of leaf spot diseases.
LightStinking Hellebore thrives best in partial shade, though it can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. The ideal location would provide morning sunlight with afternoon shade, or dappled light throughout the day. Avoid placing it in deep shade as this can reduce flowering and overall vigor.
TemperatureStinking Hellebore is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from as low as 5 degrees Fahrenheit in winter to about 85 degrees Fahrenheit in summer. They prefer moderate conditions and grow best in temperatures between 40 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid extreme heat as it can stress the plant and excessive cold below the freezing point for prolonged periods could harm it.
PruningPrune Stinking Hellebore to remove dead or damaged foliage and to promote a more compact growth habit. The best time for pruning is late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning can be done annually, or as needed, to maintain the plant's appearance and health.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Stinking Hellebore should be well-draining, enriched with organic matter, and have a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix of two parts loam, one part sand, and one part peat or compost would be ideal.
RepottingStinking Hellebore does not require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 3-4 years or when it outgrows its current container.
Humidity & MistingStinking Hellebore tolerates a wide range of humidity levels but prefers average to slightly above average humidity without requiring any special conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good airflow.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade with shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleHelleborus foetidus, commonly known as Stinking Hellebore or Bear's-foot, begins its life cycle with seed germination, usually in spring or early summer. The seedlings will develop into a rosette of dark green, palmate leaves in the first year. The plant is evergreen, retaining its leaves through winter, and in the second or third year, it produces tall stems with drooping, bell-shaped, green flowers with a reddish edge that bloom in late winter to early spring. After pollination by insects, typically bees, the flowers develop into seed pods that ripen and release seeds in late spring or early summer. Once the seeds are shed, the parent plant may die back, though Helleborus foetidus can be a long-lived perennial and may not require immediate replacement. This plant is also capable of self-seeding under appropriate conditions which can lead to naturalized colonies forming over time.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
The propagation of Hellebore, specifically the Helleborus foetidus Wester Flisk Group, is most effectively done by seed. This perennial plant sets seed easily, and the best time to collect seeds is when the seed pods have dried on the plant, typically from late spring to early summer. Fresh seeds have the highest germination rate and should be sown immediately in a well-draining soil mix, covering them lightly with soil. The pot containing seeds should be placed in a cold frame or a sheltered outdoor spot, as seeds require a period of cold stratification to germinate successfully. Germination can take anywhere from 30 to 365 days. Seedlings can then be transplanted the following spring when they have grown large enough to handle. It's essential to keep the seedlings moist but not wet throughout their first growing season to ensure healthy growth.
