Green Hellebore

Helleborus viridis

Native to:
Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Ranunculaceae
Genus:
Helleborus
Species:
Helleborus viridis
USDA Symbol:
HEVI

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb
Height:
45 cm
Light Requirements:
Part Shade
Drought Tolerance:
Medium
Bloom Months:
feb,mar,apr
Bloom Colors:
green

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees
Deer Resistant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
consistently moist
Notes:
prefers humus-rich woodland soil

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 60–90 days
Germination Time:
30–365 days
Notes:
Fresh seed germinates best; older seed may require extended cold stratification. Germination can be erratic and slow.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI

ORGHPS Germination Guide: Sow immediately, Either the viability of these seeds is short or the species propagates best with fresh seed. Stored seed might be coaxed into germination with temperature cycling and patience. Use repeated cycles of 20°C, then 4°C for 3 months each. Germination is very prolonged. Requires soaking. Place in warm water until seeds swell, usually 24-48 hours. Discard water and any seeds that remain floating. * dry storage impairs germination

Source: Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society