Veratrum californicum

RHS Plant Profile
California false hellebore
Award of Garden Merit
Herbaceous Perennial

An upright, rhizomatous perennial to 2.5m high, with broad, pleated bright green leaves that are hairy underneath. In summer, produces branching flower stems covered with small, star-shaped, green and creamy white flowers

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Clay, Loam

Max Height

1.5-2.5 metres

Max Spread

1.5-2.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Max Height
1.5-2.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H3

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Melanthiaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Potentially harmful
TOXIC if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling TOXIC to pets if eaten (dogs) - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus
Veratrum are herbaceous, rhizomatous perennials with erect stems bearing alternate, pleated ovate or elliptic leaves and dense, branched panicles of small, star-shaped flowers in summer
Name Status
Unresolved
Plant Range
Western N America

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in deep, fertile soil in partial shade; will tolerate full sun in a site where the soil does not dry out. Protect from cold, drying winds. Poisonous to livestock.

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame as soon as seed is ripe, or by division of established clumps in early spring or autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Flower spike can be cut down after flowering, or left to develop seed heads for winter interest

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and snails

Diseases

Generally disease-free