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Pruning guide · Perennial
Green hellebore: when and how to prune
Helleborus viridis
Green hellebore is best pruned in February.
| Pruning months | February |
|---|---|
| Flowering | February–April |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Green hellebore: when to prune it?
It is not really pruned: in February you simply cut away the dead leaves before the flowers appear.
What else to prune in those months? February
Green hellebore: how to prune it?
- Cut dead or damaged leaves and stalks off at the base, using sharp scissors or secateurs.
- Remove faded flower stems after seed set if you do not want self-sown seedlings.
- Wear gloves: the sap can irritate the skin.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: February.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Green hellebore flowers in February–April, when it attracts bees.
- If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
- If you only cut back in February, the old stems stand through the winter: insects overwinter in them and birds eat the seeds.
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Caution: All parts of the plant are poisonous. Wear gloves and wash your hands after working.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Green hellebore · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.