Overview
Veratrum californicum is a perennial herbaceous in the genus Veratrum, part of the Melanthiaceae family. It typically grows around 2.5 m tall. Veratrum californicum grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to Western N America.
About
Veratrum californicum is a perennial herbaceous plant that sends up erect, leafy stems to about 2.5 metres and bears clusters of white flowers in early summer. It originates from western North America and favours consistently moist ground. The species is toxic if eaten, so handle with gloves and keep away from pets. Allow ample space: plants hold a strong vertical presence through the growing season.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Veratrum californicum
About the genus
Veratrum is a genus of flowering plants in the family Melanthiaceae. It occurs in damp habitats across much of temperate and subarctic Europe, Asia, and North America.
Wikipedia contributors, "Veratrum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Veratrum
In the garden
Veratrum californicum is a tall, perennial herb in the Melanthiaceae, native to western North America. It typically reaches around 2.5 m with upright, heavily leaved stems and produces white flowers in June to July. The plant suits sites where soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Provide full sun and any reasonable soil type — sandy, loamy or clay will all work so long as moisture is consistent and drainage is not impeded. In UK hardiness terms it is H7, meaning it is fully hardy and will withstand normal winter conditions in most locations; allow room for its height when positioning in borders. Use Veratrum californicum where a tall structural element is required: the rear of a large border, alongside moisture-retentive herbaceous stands, or as a specimen in a naturalistic planting. It is toxic if eaten; wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling, and be especially cautious around dogs and children — see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further contacts and advice.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Veratrum
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Veratrum californicum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial herbaceous
- Height
- 2.5 m
- Native to
- Western N America
- Toxicity
- TOXIC 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
Pruning and caring for Veratrum californicum
- Propagation
- By seed
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Veratrum californicum?
Veratrum californicum prefers full sun.
What soil does Veratrum californicum need?
Veratrum californicum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How big does Veratrum californicum grow?
Veratrum californicum reaches a height of 2.5 m.
Is Veratrum californicum hardy in the UK?
Veratrum californicum has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Veratrum californicum?
By seed.
Is Veratrum californicum toxic?
TOXIC 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.
More in the Veratrum genus
- Veratrum grandiflorumLarge-flowered False Hellebore
- Veratrum stenophyllumFalse Hellebore
- Veratrum wilsoniiFalse Hellebore
- Veratrum yunnanenseFalse Hellebore