Helleborus foetidus 'Dunham Narrow Leaf'

Species

Helleborus foetidusStinking Hellebore

12 other cultivars

perennial

Dunham Narrow Leaf Hellebore

Helleborus foetidus 'Dunham Narrow Leaf'

The Story

Plant Bio

Evergreen perennial with striking foliage

Toxic if ingested, fragrant foliage

Uses & Benefits:

Provides evergreen interest with attractive foliage during winter.

Requires minimal care once established, tolerates shade.

Supports early-season pollinators with early blooms.

SpeciesHelleborus foetidusStinking Hellebore

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Many years

Native To

Europe

Toxicity

Yes

Bloom period

Late winter

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in fall for natural stratification
Plant divisions in early spring, 2 inches deep
Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist
Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Provide partial shade for optimal growth
Monitor for pests and remove affected leaves

Pro Tip

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

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry spells 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture
Divide plants every 3-4 years

Don't

Avoid overwatering ❌
Do not expose to full sun 🌱
Skip fertilizing in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderEvergreen foundation planting

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Heuchera Astilbe

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Dunham Narrow Leaf Hellebore questions

What zones can Dunham Narrow Leaf Hellebore grow in?

Dunham Narrow Leaf Hellebore is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Dunham Narrow Leaf Hellebore deer resistant?

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

When does Dunham Narrow Leaf Hellebore bloom?

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

Does Dunham Narrow Leaf Hellebore need full sun?

Dunham Narrow Leaf Hellebore does best in part shade.