About
A rhixomatous perennial with broadly ovate, pleated basal leaves with lightly hairy undersides. Produces upright flower stems to 2.5m high in early to midsummer, with pendent branches densely covered with small, pale green flowers.
About the genus
Veratrum are herbaceous, rhizomatous perennials with erect stems bearing alternate, pleated ovate or elliptic leaves and dense, branched panicles of small, star-shaped flowers in summer
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Cottage and informal garden
ToxicityTOXIC if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling TOXIC to pets if eaten (dogs) - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow in deep, humus-rich soil. Prefers partial shade but will tolerate full sun in a site that does not dry out. Shelter from cold, drying winds
PruningFlower spikes can be cut down after flowering, or left to develop seed heads for winter interest
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame, or for quicker results by division in autumn (propagation by seed is unreliable and slow)
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free