Species

Helleborus foetidusStinking Hellebore

12 other cultivars

perennial

Sienna Stinking Hellebore

Helleborus foetidus 'Sienna'

The Story

Plant Bio

Helleborus foetidus 'Sienna' is a perennial evergreen shrub known for its clump-forming habit, with deeply divided, serrated green foliage and nodding, bell-shaped flowers in shades of brownish-orange.

This cultivar is distinguished by its vibrant, warm-colored flowers that add a splash of color in late winter to early spring, along with its tolerance for shade and well-drained soil.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides evergreen foliage with early spring flowers, adding fragrance and texture to shaded gardens.

Resistant to deer and rabbits, requiring minimal pest control.

Supports pollinators early in the season and thrives in woodland habitats.

SpeciesHelleborus foetidusStinking Hellebore

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

18 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Many years

Native To

Mediterranean region

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late winter – Early spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in fall for natural stratification
Plant divisions in early spring with well-draining soil
Water regularly during first growing season
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced organic fertilizer
Remove old leaves in late winter to encourage new growth

Pro Tip

Ensure well-draining soil and partial shade for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture
Prune dead leaves in late winter

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t expose to full, hot sun
Never disturb dormant roots during winter

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shade garden borderWoodland edgeFragrant groundcover

Companion Plants

Hosta AstilbeFerns Epimedium Brunnera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Sienna Stinking Hellebore questions

What zones can Sienna Stinking Hellebore grow in?

Sienna Stinking Hellebore is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Sienna Stinking Hellebore deer resistant?

Yes — Sienna Stinking Hellebore is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Sienna Stinking Hellebore bloom?

Sienna Stinking Hellebore typically blooms in late winter through early spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Sienna Stinking Hellebore need full sun?

Sienna Stinking Hellebore does best in part shade.

Is Sienna Stinking Hellebore drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Sienna Stinking Hellebore handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.