Veratrum nigrum, commonly known as Black False Hellebore, is a perennial herb native to damp meadows, streambanks, and forest clearings across Eurasia, from France to Korea. It can reach up to 4 feet in height and prefers nutrient-rich, moist soils. This plant features broad, pleated, lanceolate leaves that form a sizeable rosette at the base. The flowers are unique, with a deep purple-black color, blooming in erect, branched clusters during early summer. The blooms are not particularly showy but have a certain architectural appeal. After flowering, the plant often goes dormant in response to intense heat.

Black False Hellebore is valued for its striking foliage and unusual flower color, making it a conversation piece in shade gardens and woodland settings. It is also used in traditional medicine, although it is highly toxic and should be handled with care. In cultivation, it requires consistent moisture and does well in partial to full shade, mimicking its natural habitat. It is not drought-tolerant and will need protection from intense afternoon sun. While it is not commonly afflicted by diseases, its toxicity generally keeps pests at bay. Due to its poisonous nature, it should be planted with caution, especially in gardens accessible to children and pets.CC BY-SA 4.0