Pontarlier stinking hellebore
Helleborus foetidus 'Pontarlier'
USDA zones5 to 9
SunHandles partial sun to full shade
WaterNeeds moderate soil
Sizeup to 18 inches tall
- Habit
- Clumping
- Bloom season
- Spring, winter
- Bloom color
- Greenish white
Garden uses
Notes
'Pontarlier' stinking hellebore (Helleborus foetidus 'Pontarlier') is a perennial for shade gardens, woodland settings, and winter interest. It is hardy to USDA zone 5, or down to -20°F (-29°C). This plant likes part sun to full shade and average moisture. Fragrant, greenish white flowers open in mid winter and again in early to late spring. It is not a favorite of deer or rabbits, though hungry ones will eat almost anything. The evergreen plant forms a clumping mound up to 18 inches tall.
Pairs well with Lady fern, Elegans hosta, and Solomon's seal.