Stinking hellebore (Helleborus foetidus)

Also known as: Stinking Hellebore, Bear's Foot

The stinking hellebore (Helleborus foetidus) is an evergreen perennial that typically reaches a height of about 60 cm. It produces clusters of yellowish-green, cup-shaped flowers from late winter to early spring. The plant features attractive light green foliage that droops gracefully. When the leaves are crushed, they emit an unpleasant odor, which is how the plant got its name. Stinking hellebore grows best in rich, well-drained soil and prefers a semi-shady environment.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Stinking hellebore

Lifespan

Perennial, Annual, Biennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

80 cm

Spread

1 m

Leaf Color

Green Yellow

Flower Size

2 cm

Flower Color

Green Purple Yellow Cream

Images of Stinking hellebore

Quickly Identify Stinking hellebore

Bell-shaped, nodding flowers with yellow-green hue and maroon edging.

Palmate leaves with 7-10 lanceolate leaflets emitting distinct odor when crushed.

Stout stem emerging as a rhizome, 0.2-0.6 inches (5-15 mm) thick, occasionally reddish.

Distinct fleshy fruit capsules with long, beaked protrusions, encased by persistent sepals.

5-parted, green flowers flushed with purple, measuring 3-4 inches (7-10 cm) in diameter.

Scientific Classification of Stinking hellebore

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Ranunculales

Family

Buttercup

Genus

Hellebores

Species

Stinking hellebore

Planting and Growing of Stinking hellebore

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-70℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Stinking hellebore?

When watering Helleborus foetidus, aim to thoroughly soak the soil until water drains out of the bottom of the pot. This ensures that the moisture reaches the root zone effectively, preventing superficial wetting which can cause root issues.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Stinking hellebore? ›

What should I do if my Stinking hellebore is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Stinking hellebore? ›

How to save an overwatered Stinking hellebore? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Stinking hellebore?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4-6 hours daily

Helleborus foetidus thrives best in partial sun, ideally achieving a balance of around 4-6 hours of filtered sunlight each day. This range supports robust flowering and strong, healthy foliage, mimicking the dappled sun of their natural habitat, ideal for continuously vibrant growth.

Optimal Sunlight Exposure ›

Seasonal Light Adjustments ›

Monitoring Plant Health ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Stinking hellebore?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 70℉

The ideal temperature range for Helleborus foetidus is between 60 to 70°F. This temperature ensures optimal growth conditions, balancing warmth and light, which help the plant produce lush foliage and bloom effectively. It thrives best in these moderate temperatures, emulating its natural woodland habitat.

What Soil is Best for Stinking hellebore?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Helleborus foetidus thrives best in well-draining soil, which helps prevent waterlogging that can cause root rot. A well-aerated environment ensures the roots receive enough oxygen and nutrients, vital for the lush growth of this plant. This plant favors soils with moderate nutrient availability. Too rich soil leads to overly lush growth, while nutrient-poor conditions stunt development. Balanced soil ensures steady growth and abundant flowering throughout the season. Maintaining consistent moisture without saturation is key. Regular watering keeps the soil just moist enough without being drenched, preventing stress and fostering healthful blooms.

How to Fertilize Stinking hellebore?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Helleborus foetidus, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength. Use approximately 10-15 ml per liter of water to ensure the plant receives enough nutrients without risk of overload.

How to Prune Stinking hellebore?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Ensure your pruning tools are clean and sharp before use. This minimizes damage to the plant and reduces the risk of transmitting diseases. Sterilize tools with alcohol or a mild bleach solution between cuts. During pruning, take the opportunity to inspect your Helleborus foetidus for signs of pests or diseases. Early detection will help you manage any issues before they become serious, ensuring your plant remains healthy and thriving.

How to Propagate Stinking hellebore plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring

Collect seeds from healthy, mature Helleborus foetidus plants after the flowering period. Ensure seeds are fully ripe before collection, as immature seeds may not germinate effectively. Once collected, clean and dry them properly to prevent fungal growth during storage.

Sow seeds in seed starting trays filled with compost-rich soil. Cover seeds lightly with soil and water gently to avoid displacing them. Place the trays in a shaded area that receives indirect sunlight and maintains humidity for optimal germination.

For division propagation, dig up the parent plant in early spring when active growth begins. Use a garden spade to carefully separate the plant into divisions, ensuring each has sufficient roots and shoots. Plant divisions at the same depth they were growing previously, water thoroughly, and mulch to conserve moisture.

How to Repot Stinking hellebore plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Helleborus foetidus needs repotting when you notice roots circling the bottom of the pot or if growth has slowed down markedly. Spring or early autumn are ideal seasons, as the plant can easily recuperate during these less stressful growth stages.

Select a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. This ensures the roots do not remain waterlogged, preventing root rot. A pot with drainage holes is crucial, as Helleborus appreciates excellent drainage to thrive.

Opt for a well-draining loamy mix enriched with organic matter. This kind of soil provides the necessary nutrients while allowing water to flow freely, mimicking the plant's natural soil conditions, thus promoting healthier growth.

Toxicity of Stinking hellebore

Is Stinking hellebore toxic to humans?

All components of stinking hellebore are moderately poisonous to humans if ingested, with the likelihood of poisoning increasing when consuming significant amounts of the plant. Symptoms may consist of a burning sensation in the mouth and throat, excessive salivation, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, neurological symptoms, and depression. The toxins present in stinking hellebore can also interact negatively with prescription medications such as beta-blockers, steroids, and chemotherapy drugs.

Is Stinking hellebore toxic to cat?

Stinking hellebore, widely referred to as Stinking hellebore, exhibits a moderate toxicity level for cats. Every part of the plant is toxic if ingested, thereby endangering feline health. When cats encounter stinking hellebore, they might suffer from physical discomfort or exhibit symptoms of illness that could necessitate veterinary care. If you fear that your cat has consumed stinking hellebore, it is imperative to pursue prompt veterinary assistance to guarantee appropriate treatment and reduce potential hazards to your cat's health.

Is Stinking hellebore toxic to dog?

Stinking hellebore presents a moderate toxicity hazard for dogs. Ingesting any part of this plant can result in poisoning for canines, as all its components are deemed toxic. Symptoms of poisoning in dogs may include vomiting, diarrhea, stomach discomfort, and lethargy. Should you suspect that your dog has consumed stinking hellebore, it is crucial to obtain prompt veterinary assistance to secure the best outcome for your pet.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.