Overview
Helleborus foetidus is a bushy herbaceous perennial in the genus Helleborus, part of the Ranunculaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Helleborus foetidus grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. It is low maintenance.
About
Helleborus foetidus, commonly known as stinking hellebore, is a bushy, evergreen herbaceous perennial belonging to the Ranunculaceae family. It typically grows to a height of 0.5 to 1 metre with a spread of 0.1 to 0.5 metres, reaching full size within 2 to 5 years. This plant thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers sheltered positions with moist but well-drained soil, including chalk, clay, or loam, favouring alkaline to neutral pH. It provides seasonal interest in spring, autumn, and winter and is low maintenance.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Helleborus
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
Plant details
Helleborus foetidus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Helleborus foetidus?
Helleborus foetidus prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Helleborus foetidus need?
Helleborus foetidus is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay and loam. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How big does Helleborus foetidus grow?
Helleborus foetidus reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
More in the Helleborus genus
- Helleborus argutifoliusholly-leaved hellebore
- Helleborus foetidus 'Chedglow Variegated' (v)
- Helleborus foetidus 'Green Giant'
- Helleborus foetidus 'Red Silver'
- Helleborus foetidus 'Sienna'
- Helleborus lividus subsp. lividus
- Helleborus niger 'Double Fantasy' (d)
- Helleborus niger 'Nell Lewis'