Black False Hellebore

NB These super rare plants are one year old seedlings and may take a few seasons to flower maybe up to three it is uncertain and based on growing conditions but rest assured they will absolutely be worth the wait and are very long lived.

A very rare and impressive sight. Towering stems of chocolate stars dazzle through summer and are followed by ornamental seed heads that can further last into winter making it sensational value. Each almost black bloom grows 1.5cm across. It puts on a show for around three months, it is also useful in providing structure through height and absolutely has the wow factor.

The handsome, upright, pleated, mid green, ovate foliage grows to 35cm. It is quite similar to Hosta leaves but from a central whorl.

Veratrum nigrum holds the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit so you know it not only looks good but is also low maintenance and enduring. It’s been in cultivation since the 18th Century but is noted in text far early, Lucretius (99-55 BC) and Pliny the Elder (23-78 AD). Charles Darwin even grew them in his garden (c. 1840).

Plant Veratrum in humus rich, moist, well drained soil with lots of lovely organic matter. They are endemic to woodland areas of Europe, Russia and Asia so appreciate protection from the hot afternoon sun. No disease issues but should be protected from slugs and snails. Will gradually spread through underground rhizomes to form a nice clump.

The flowers have a slight but unpleasant fragrance that fades quickly. Slow growing and long lived.

Commonly known as Corn Lilies or False Hellebores though they have no relation to either. Depending on conditions it will be roughly three years to flower, but absolutely worth the wait.