Overview
Veratrum nigrum is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Veratrum, part of the Melanthiaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1-1.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Veratrum nigrum grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. It is a holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden and wildlife gardens. It is native to S Europe to Asia.
About
This perennial plant forms dense clumps and is deciduous. Its pleated, elliptical leaves can grow up to 30 cm long. The erect stems reach heights of approximately 1.2 m and are adorned with large clusters of small, star-shaped flowers that are deep reddish-brown in color, blooming in July and August.
About the genus
Veratrum consists of herbaceous perennials that develop rhizomes and feature upright stems. The leaves are arranged alternately, with a pleated texture and an ovate to elliptic shape. In summer, these plants produce dense, branching clusters of small, star-like flowers.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Veratrum
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Veratrum nigrum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 1-1.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
- Native to
- S Europe to Asia
- 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 nigrum
- Cultivation
- Grow in deep, fertile, humus-rich soil that is moist but well-drained; site in partial shade or full sun so long as the soil does not dry out. Shelter from cold, drying winds
- Pruning
- Cut down flowering spike after flowering
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed in pots in a cold frame as soon as seed is ripe. Propagate by division in early spring or autumn
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to slugs and snails
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Veratrum nigrum?
Grow in deep, fertile, humus-rich soil that is moist but well-drained; site in partial shade or full sun so long as the soil does not dry out. Shelter from cold, drying winds.
Where is the best place to plant Veratrum nigrum?
Veratrum nigrum prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Veratrum nigrum need?
Veratrum nigrum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Veratrum nigrum?
Cut down flowering spike after flowering.
How big does Veratrum nigrum grow?
Veratrum nigrum reaches a height of 1-1.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Veratrum nigrum hardy in the UK?
Veratrum nigrum has a UK hardiness rating of H6.
How do I propagate Veratrum nigrum?
Propagate by seed in pots in a cold frame as soon as seed is ripe. Propagate by division in early spring or autumn.
Is Veratrum nigrum 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.