perennial

Stinking Hellebore

Helleborus foetidus 'Pontarlier'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mediterranean region

Toxicity

High

The Story

Plant Bio

Helleborus foetidus 'Pontarlier' is a perennial evergreen shrub known for its clumping habit, with deeply divided, fern-like foliage and tall stems bearing clusters of cup-shaped, lime-green flowers in late winter to early spring. This cultivar is distinguished by its more vigorous growth and brighter lime-green flower color, adding early-season interest and a touch of elegance to shaded garden areas.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides early spring greenery with fragrant foliage, enhancing shaded garden areas.

Toxicity deters herbivores; evergreen foliage offers year-round interest.

Supports native pollinators when in bloom and adds biodiversity to woodland gardens.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in fall for natural stratification
Plant divisions in early spring, spacing 12 inches apart
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Remove dead or damaged leaves in early spring
Fertilize with balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained, humus-rich soil in partial shade for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
Mulch annually to conserve moisture
Prune dead leaves early spring

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t expose to full sun, which can scorch foliage
Refrain from disturbing roots during dormancy

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded border with dark evergreen foliageFragrant groundcover in woodland garden

Companion Plants

Hosta Ferns Pulmonaria Astilbe Primula

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Stinking Hellebore questions

What zones can Stinking Hellebore grow in?

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 Stinking Hellebore deer resistant?

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

When does Stinking Hellebore bloom?

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 Stinking Hellebore need full sun?

Stinking Hellebore does best in part shade.