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Helleborus croaticus, Martinis (1973)
A relatively newly described species, Helleborus croaticus represents the third
of the 'purple' flowered species. It occurs in northeast Croatia over a limited
range. In flower appearance, it most closely resembles Helleborus torquatus
and Helleborus atrorubens, but it seems isolated in its geographical range
and has some other distinguishing features.
It can be larger than H. atrorubens and young foliage is typically hairy
underneath rather than glabrous, and it's flowers are rather small in relation to
its foliage and bracts. The large open bracts also help distinguish it from H.
torquatus.
This plant was introduced to gardens by Will Mclewin of Phedar Nursery in
1993, so it is understandable that relatively little information is available.
Seeds are sometimes available but often plants are hard to come by.
Helleborus croaticus has a very limited range.
H. croaticus growing in north-
east Croatia (Slavonia).
Photos by Tim Murphy.
(click to enlarge)
