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Helleborus argutifolius, Viviani (1824) Perennial, glabrous; height variable, often 36-48" in flower, sometimes taller Leaves along stem, dentate, trifoliate; often wintergreen Flowers 10-30, green, on terminal inflorescence; 1-2" in diameter Corsica and Sardinia Hillsides, ravines, scrub The Corsican hellebore (syn. Helleborus corsicus) is a caulescent (stemmed) species that can grow larger than any other hellebore. With regard to nomenclature and taxonomy, its relationship to Helleborus lividus raises some interesting questions, but it is mostly an unmistakable plant. Its leaves are composed of three leaflets which are usually serrated on the margins (first young leaves often entire). All the leaves occur on the stem (i.e. basal foliage is absent). Its size is highly variable depending on the climate and growing conditions. In some areas it may grow to a height of 5 feet or more; in less hospitable conditions it may reach only 24 inches or so. Size differences may also reflect genetic variation. Like its common name suggests, H. argutifolius hails from the island of Corsica and also grows on nearby Sardinia. Though locally widespread, it is not known to occur outside the two islands. Its closest relative is H. lividus, with which it can hybridize freely. The two species have in the past been considered different forms of the same species but are now generally viewed as distinct, and each are geographically isolated from the other. Morphologically, H. argutifolius does not typically show the 'purple' coloring that is somewhat common in H. lividus. It is also a much larger plant on average. Hybrids and garden intermediates between the two species are referred to as Helleborus x sternii. Hybrids can produce plants closely resembling either parent (phenetically indistinguishable), as well as a whole spectrum of intermediate forms between those extremes. Even back crosses with H. lividus do not reliably give strictly lividus-heavy results. The leaves sometimes display a slightly marbled appearance and are typically light shades of green with occasional hints of blue and pearl, but nothing like the range of color in H. lividus. The flowers are pale green and relatively small, perhaps 1-2 inches in diameter. But in decent conditions, blooms are produced in profusion above the foliage. The pale green sepals sometimes reflex heavily as the flower ages, as do the stamens. In favorable conditions, plants generally produce copious amounts of seed and can produce seed in significant quantities even when grown in isolation. Somewhat tender compared to most species, H. argutifolius will tolerate freezing temperatures, but prolonged periods of cold can harm foliage. Long periods of extreme cold will also affect stems and roots. My plants endure occasional temperatures of 0-10 degrees F (-18 to -12 C) and survive, but frequently the growth remains stunted and flowering significantly reduced. The topmost leaves may suffer frost damage and turn brown before new foliage appears. Some years the plants may produce no seed at all if conditions are harsh in late winter, but the roots and stems typically suffer no damage. Even after cold winters, the new foliage dramatically appears. Cutting back the old foliage in late winter is advisable, particularly leaves that are closest to the base of the stem. This provides room for new growth and encourages better air circulation around the base of the plant. H. argutifolius is typically shorter lived than the acaulescent species. In their second or third year plants may hit their peak, and growing seedlings will help ensure that these plants remain in the garden. Its roots are also much more shallow than the acaulescent species, so that massive soil improvement is often not as necessary. It will grow well in fertile or rather poor soils so long as decent drainage is provided. Plants prefer plenty of sun and will grow larger and bloom more profusely if bright conditions exist. Seedings mature rapidly, and this fact makes raising plants from seed most sensible. It is possible to divide plants by cutting off the main stem after flowering, splitting the main stem at its base, and then planting out new side stem shoots with some live root attached. I have never seen a particular plant that was worth the trouble, but it can be done. Certain 'variegated' or specially marked forms may be worth the attempt for adventurous gardeners. I have found that in some cases seedlings raised in the garden are less prone to damage by frost than the parent plants purchased from nurseries. Perhaps the seed stores some information regarding the local environment which helps the plants adjust accordingly. Helleborus argutifolius is worth growing for the foliage alone, and the pale green sprays of flowers add to its charm. It distinctly carries a  Mediterranean look and is suited for rugged plantings accompanied by rocks and other plants suited for such an environment. To my eye, it looks best in a rock garden. If not given enough light, the stems may become top-heavy and flop over. It is suitable for USDA zones 6 and above. Roots may survive in even colder climates.

H. abruzzicus H. atrorubens H. bocconei H. croaticus H. cyclophyllus H. dumetorum H. foetidus H. hercegovinus H. istriacus H. liguricus H. lividus H. multifidus H. niger H. occidentalis H. odorus H. orientalis H. purpurascens H. thibetanus H. torquatus H. vesicarius H. viridis 'New' Hellebores

Top: Summer foliage of Helleborus argutifolius. Bottom: Helleborus x sternii in middle Tennessee after a mild winter. Notice the darker and more colorful leaves from Helleborus lividus influence.