did you know?

All parts of the stinking hellebore, which is native to central and western Europe, are poisonous; the sap may cause skin irritation.

general maintenance:

Deadhead spent flowers after bloom. Remove winter-damaged foliage in early spring.

pests/diseases:

Slugs and leaf spot may occur.

controls:

Handpick slugs from foliage, or spread diatomaceous earth around plants. To discourage leaf spot, increase space between plants and avoid wetting leaves when watering. Pick off diseased leaves where practical, and remove and destroy severely infected plants.

how to sow/plant:

Plant in spring or fall. Choose a shady to partly shady site with moist, well-drained soil, and amend with well-rotted manure or compost. Set plants at same depth they were in pots, spacing them 2?3 feet apart. Water after planting, and mulch to conserve moisture.

water and fertilize:

Monitor soil moisture all season. In early spring, feed with an all-purpose fertilizer during active growth, following label directions.

garden hint:

Hellebores self-seed readily. The young seedlings may be transplanted to other areas and will bloom the third year.

features:

• Attractive Flowers
• Attractive Foliage
• Deer Resistant
• Shade Tolerant
• Winter Interest

garden uses:

• Flowerbed borders
• Ground Cover
• Naturalizing
• Shade Woodland Garden

other uses:

combine with:

ferns, corydalis, and wild ginger