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Veratrum album
Veratrum album
Veratrum album
Veratrum album

Veratrum album

TAXONOMY

FamilyMelanthiaceae
GenusVeratrum
Zone4

ABOUT

Veratrum album, commonly known as White Hellebore, is a perennial plant in the family Melanthiaceae. It is native to temperate regions of Europe and Asia, typically found in moist meadows and along stream banks. The plant has a rhizomatous growth form and produces large, pleated leaves and tall flower spikes with white to greenish flowers. It undergoes a dormancy period during the winter months.

ALSO KNOWN AS

Helleborus Albus
Melanthium Bracteolare
Melanthium Hybridum
Melanthium Virens
White Hellebore
Melanthium album
Veratrum album f. glabrescens
Veratrum album f. podolicum
Veratrum album subsp. albicans
Veratrum album subsp. album
Veratrum album subsp. misae
Veratrum album var. bosniacum
Veratrum album var. croaticum
Veratrum album var. flavum
Veratrum album var. misae
Veratrum album var. spathulatum
Veratrum album var. viride
Veratrum album var. viridiflorum
Veratrum bosniacum
Veratrum bosniacum var. albanicum
Veratrum croaticum
Veratrum flavum
Veratrum lobelianum f. oppositifolium
Veratrum lobelianum subsp. misae
Veratrum lobelianum var. glabrescens
Veratrum lobelianum var. misae
Veratrum lobelianum var. obovatum
Veratrum lobelianum var. podolicum
Veratrum misae
Veratrum parviflorum
Veratrum polygamum

OVERVIEW

WaterWet
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature15° C
Humidity70%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar

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DETAILS

Care Instructions
Veratrum album prefers temperate climates with moderate temperatures. It thrives in bright, indirect light and requires consistently moist soil. The plant benefits from high humidity and should be protected from extreme heat and cold. Regular watering is essential to keep the soil evenly moist.
Soil
Veratrum album grows best in loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be well-draining yet able to retain moisture. Adding compost or other organic material can help improve soil structure and fertility.
Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 can be applied during the growing season to support healthy growth. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks, but avoid over-fertilizing as this can harm the plant.
Repotting
Repot Veratrum album every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its container. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, place it in the new one, and fill in with fresh soil.
Propagation
Veratrum album can be propagated by division of the rhizomes in early spring or late autumn. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the rhizomes, ensuring each division has roots attached. Replant the divisions in suitable soil and water well.
Pruning
Pruning is generally not required for Veratrum album. However, you can remove any dead or damaged leaves to maintain the plant's appearance and health. Cut back the flower spikes after blooming to encourage new growth.
Toxicity
Veratrum album is highly toxic to both humans and animals. All parts of the plant contain toxic alkaloids, which can cause severe symptoms if ingested, including nausea, vomiting, and cardiac issues. Handle the plant with care and keep it out of reach of pets and children.
Additional
Veratrum album has been used historically in traditional medicine, but due to its high toxicity, it should not be used without professional guidance. The plant can also be a striking addition to a garden, but it requires careful handling and placement away from areas frequented by pets and children.
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