Stinking Hellebore

Granted, this plant didn't get its name from nowhere - it smells a little of of rotting grass when up close - but its array of great attributes has it firmly placed in the hall of fame of the RHS Awards of Garden Merit. A highly valued plant for the winter garden, this evergreen perennial produces nodding, purple-edged, pale green bell shaped flowers in large open clusters from late winter to late spring. The leathery fan-like dark green foliage continues to add interest and groundcover throughout the year. Helleborus foetidus is tolerant of dry shade making it perfect for underplanting with trees and shrubs where it looks right at home. It is also known to thrive in mild coastal gardens. Anywhere where the winter can be harsh, Helleborus foetidus would benefit from a mulch of manure or compost in late autumn to protect the crown.

Site: Sheltered
Soil: Prefers moist soil, well drained, loam, chalk, clay
Position: Full sun, partial shade
Season of Interest: Green flowers from late December to March. Long flowering period
Hardiness: Hardy, tolerant of temperatures down to -10°C
Height: 2ft (60cm) Spread: 1.5ft (45cm)