Black Hellebore (Helleborus niger)

Family: Ranunculaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Helleborus niger is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from January to February, and the seeds ripen from May to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

None known. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Woods and thickets, mainly in mountains, on calcareous soils. Sometimes also found in grassland. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)