Hellebore: Benefits, Uses, Indications, Growing Methods and Precautions

I believe many retired workers like to grow plants at home to pass the time, and at the same time, they also hope to grow some plants with medicinal value. If that is what you are thinking too, then the plant introduced next is perfect for you!

It is the hellebore from the Ranunculaceae family, which has many aliases that differ from region to region, including Black Hairy Seven, Nine Hundred Sticks and so on. In appearance, its leaves are usually thick and smooth with slightly serrated edges, and during the flowering period it produces yellow or orange flowers, so it also has considerable ornamental value. Its medicinal value includes strengthening the heart, relieving fever, promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis, reducing swelling and relieving pain; it can usually help relieve fever, and if a fever occurs, hellebore can be chosen for treatment.

For routine care, hellebore prefers semi-shady and humid environments, so it is recommended to place it near an east- or north-facing window, which allows it to better receive diffused light. If only a south- or west-facing window is available, then it is advisable to add an extra curtain or screen to filter out part of the sunlight. In addition, when hot weather arrives in summer, even on the northeast side, avoid direct sun exposure; when autumn is relatively dry, you can increase air humidity by misting; when the weather is cold in winter, place it in a relatively warm and wind-sheltered spot.

For routine watering, it likes humid environments, so it should be watered more, but be careful not to leave standing water at the bottom of the flower pot, otherwise the roots can easily rot. During the spring and autumn growing seasons, water immediately once the soil surface is dry, but also note that in humid environments good ventilation must be maintained to prevent pests and diseases; in summer, water only when the soil surface is slightly moist, because it is in its dormant period; in winter, be even more careful to prevent frost damage.

Finally, fertilizing is an indispensable part of growing flowers and plants. It is recommended to fertilize at least three times a year after just buying it. The first time is after sprouting, which can promote more and brighter flowers and better flower bud differentiation. The second time is after flowering, used to supplement nutrients and promote later seed development. The third time is from September to October, which can promote better stem growth. Each time, potassium fertilizer and phosphorus fertilizer can be used as the main types; in addition, during the high-temperature dormant period in summer, fertilizing should be stopped.