Stinking hellebore Helleborus foetidus 5-10 pot P9

Size: Potmaat leidend

5-10cm

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Pot 9x9 cm (P9)

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Benefits according to our specialist

Plantable year-round
Low maintenance
Evergreen

Plant features
Description
Planting and care
Packaging and shipping

Genus
Helleborus (view all varieties)

Root type
Pot

Pot size
9x9 cm (P9)

Flowering months
January, February, March, April

Leaf colour
Green

Possibilities
Border, Group planting

Soil type
All soil types, well-drained

Positioning
Semi-shade, Shade

Winter hardiness
-23,3°C / -20,6°C, USDA zone 6a

Fruit-bearing plants
No

Water needs
Average water

Number of plants per m²
9

Evergreen plants
Yes

Leaf colour
Green

Fragrant plants
No

Growth habit
Upright to bushy growth habit

Height at time of delivery excluding pot/clod
5-10

Mature height (cm)
40

Art. no.
1000572

Description

Helleborus foetidus | Stinking hellebore

Helleborus foetidus, commonly known as the stinking hellebore or bear's foot, is a distinctive evergreen perennial that graces the garden with its presence year-round. Despite its common name, it is only mildly odorous when the foliage is crushed, and it brings a unique verdant charm to shaded garden spaces. The plant blooms in the colder months, from January through April, offering a rare green winter flower that adds interest to the otherwise dormant period in many gardens.

This species is native to Western and Southern Europe, thriving under deciduous trees and on stony slopes, where it is sheltered from the harsh midday sun.

Key Features

Helleborus is an ideal choice for gardeners looking to add year-round greenery to their borders and group plantings.
The bear's foot is known for its upright to bushy growth habit, reaching a modest height of about 40 centimeters.
Its foliage remains an attractive green throughout all seasons, making it a valuable addition to any garden palette.
During winter, the plant showcases green flowers with hints of purple, offering a subtle splash of color during the colder months.

Tips

Ensure Helleborus foetidus is planted in well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging, which could be detrimental to the plant's health.
Choose a location with partial to full shade for optimal growth, as too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Water the plant regularly to maintain evenly moist soil, but take care not to overwater, especially during the winter months.
No need to worry about drought conditions, as Helleborus foetidus prefers a consistent supply of moisture.
Propagation can be done by sowing seeds, though patience is required as the growth from seed to flowering plant takes time.
Since it is evergreen, minimal maintenance is required; simply remove any damaged or old leaves to keep the plant looking neat and healthy.

Ideal placement of a Helleborus foetidus

Thriving best in partial shade to full shade, this species is well-suited for cooler, sheltered locations. Its preference for well-drained soil allows it to be incorporated into a variety of soil types, ensuring that the location has adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging. The plant's evergreen foliage maintains a lush green throughout the year, making it an excellent choice for borders and group plantings where it can provide consistent color and texture. For optimal growth and longevity, select a spot that mimics its natural habitat in Western and Southern Europe, offering a cool, temperate environment.

How do I plant a Helleborus foetidus?

To ensure successful establishment, Helleborus foetidus should be planted in well-drained soil, which can accommodate its growth in a variety of types. A partially shaded to fully shaded location mimics this plant's natural woodland habitat and encourages vigorous growth. Given that the species is pot-grown, it can be introduced to the garden at any point outside of frost conditions. Upon planting, water moderately to help the roots settle. Regular watering should be maintained until the plant is well-established, after which it will have an average water requirement. This evergreen thrives under a canopy of trees or shrubs, where it can reach its mature height of 40 cm.

Pruning a Helleborus foetidus

Pruning Helleborus foetidus is generally minimal. It is beneficial to remove any damaged or unsightly foliage to maintain an attractive appearance. The evergreen leaves provide year-round interest, but as new growth emerges in spring, older leaves may become less appealing. These can be cut back to make way for the fresh foliage. Deadheading after flowering can be done to tidy up the plant, although this species does not typically produce seed, so removing spent flowers is more for aesthetics than encouraging further blooming.

Watering a Helleborus foetidus

Helleborus foetidus thrives with consistent moisture, particularly during its main flowering period from winter to early spring. The plant's water needs are average, but it is essential to maintain well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging, which could be detrimental to its health. While it is drought-resistant to a degree, it is advisable to ensure the soil does not dry out completely, especially in extended dry spells. Regular watering promotes lush foliage and optimal growth, but care should be taken to avoid overwatering, particularly in shady areas where evaporation is slower.

Fertilising a Helleborus foetidus

To ensure the vitality and longevity of Helleborus foetidus, a consistent fertilisation regimen is key. As an evergreen plant with a lengthy flowering period in the cooler months, it benefits from a boost of nutrients in the form of a balanced, slow-release fertiliser applied in early spring and late autumn. This helps sustain its lush green foliage and distinctive green to purple flowers throughout its blooming season.

The fertiliser should be gently worked into the soil around the plant, taking care not to disturb the roots. A well-drained soil will assist in preventing nutrient runoff, allowing the plant to fully absorb the essential elements it requires. An appropriate feeding schedule contributes to a robust growth habit and enhances the plant's resilience in its shaded or partially shaded environment.

The characteristics of a Helleborus foetidus

Despite its name, Helleborus foetidus is a captivating addition to woodland gardens or shaded borders, offering a subtle, yet alluring charm. Its bell-shaped, greenish flowers emerge in late winter to early spring, a time when few other plants are in bloom, providing an unexpected splash of color. The finely cut, evergreen foliage maintains an elegant appearance throughout the year, contributing texture and depth to garden compositions. This species thrives in pot cultivation, allowing for versatile placement in various garden settings.

What will be the height of Helleborus foetidus?

Helleborus foetidus typically reaches a height ranging from 50 centimeters to 1 meter.

What will be the width of Helleborus foetidus?

Helleborus foetidus will reach a maximum spread of 10 centimeters to 50 centimeters.

Which soil type is most suitable for the Helleborus foetidus?

Helleborus foetidus can adapt to various soil types, but it thrives best in well-drained soil. Ensuring proper drainage is essential for maintaining the health and vitality of this plant.

What is the ideal positioning for the Helleborus foetidus?

The ideal location for Helleborus foetidus would be an area with partial shade or shade. This plant flourishes in environments where direct sunlight is limited, such as under the canopy of larger plants or in shaded areas of the garden.

What is the flowering colour of the Helleborus foetidus?

The flowers of Helleborus foetidus are characterized by their unique green hue, adding a distinct and intriguing touch to the plant's overall appearance.

Is the Helleborus foetidus hardy?

Indeed, Helleborus foetidus demonstrates winter hardiness. It is capable of enduring temperatures as low as -23.3°C to -20.1°C, placing it within USDA hardiness zone 6a. Consequently, Helleborus foetidus is well-equipped to thrive during the winter months in various climates, provided that the temperatures remain within its specified limits.

Is the Helleborus foetidus evergreen?

Helleborus foetidus is indeed an evergreen plant, maintaining its foliage throughout the year. This characteristic makes it an excellent choice for adding greenery and vibrancy to your garden regardless of the season.

What is the growth strength of the Helleborus foetidus?

Helleborus foetidus is known to achieve its full height within a period of two to five years, signifying a moderately swift growth rate for this particular species.

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