Overview

Veratrum nigrum var. ussuriense is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Veratrum, part of the Melanthiaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Veratrum nigrum var. ussuriense grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildlife gardens, flower borders and beds and underplanting of roses and shrubs.

About

Veratrum nigrum, the black false hellebore, is a widespread Eurasian species of perennial flowering plant in the family Melanthiaceae. Despite its common name, V.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Veratrum

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Veratrum nigrum var. ussuriense size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds, Underplanting of roses and shrubs

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Veratrum nigrum var. ussuriense

Propagation
Seed, Division
Pest resistance
Susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Veratrum nigrum var. ussuriense?

Veratrum nigrum var. ussuriense prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Veratrum nigrum var. ussuriense need?

Veratrum nigrum var. ussuriense is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Veratrum nigrum var. ussuriense hardy in the UK?

Veratrum nigrum var. ussuriense has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.

How do I propagate Veratrum nigrum var. ussuriense?

Seed, Division.

More in the Veratrum genus

Browse all Veratrum