Quackin Grass Nursery

Helleborus foetidus 'Wester Flisk' - This most handsome selection of Bearclaw Hellebore exhibits all the terrific attributes of the straight species plus red stems and red petioles which augments the ornamental appeal. Round green buds hidden in pale green sheaths can begin to emerge in December in northeastern Connecticut. If the winter isn't too harsh the Granny Smith apple-green marbles open into lovely bells. These can last the entire winter for us in northeastern Connecticut. However, if the weather is too harsh, temps too cold and dry for extended periods the plant may toast. This occurs only occasionally here in Zone 5b. Most winters the flowers last and are an absolute delight. Each leaf is composed of narrow blades set in a palmate structure resembling a bear claw. Matte-finished green foliage is layered, broad, and dark vinyl on the thick red stems. Flowers occur terminally and dangle at tops of stems above the foliage. Also known as the Stinking Hellebore – what a rotten name! - the flowers are apparently “fragrant” though I have never actually whiffed them. Ants love the fatty structure (elaiosomes) on the relatively large, heavy seeds. They carry these off to their colonies where they store the seeds until they eat the fatty deposit. They then dispose of the seeds usually a distance from the mother plant. This fascinating strategy allows Helleborus foetidus to extend its range as the seeds are too heavy generally to be carried by the wind. Interesting stuff, no? Will self sow with the help of the ants if happy. If the straight species occurs in your gardens progeny may be genetically watered-down. Fertile, draining soil in open to part shade.