Black Hellebore (Veratrum nigrum)

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

Veratrum nigrum is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft) by 0.6 m (2ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

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

Dry glades and water meadows, mountain slopes, scrub and rarely in broad-leaved woods in Siberia. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)