Helleborus niger subsp. niger

Helleborus niger subsp. niger belongs to the family of Ranunculaceae. This multi -year herbaceous plant is of particular interest because of its early heyday and its striking white flowers. It is native to the calcareous mountain regions of Central and Southern Europe and is estimated in naturopathy and an ornamental plant.

Morphology

Helleborus niger subsp. niger is a persistent plant with a height of 10 to 30 centimeters. The plant grows from a strong, branched rhizome that serves as a memory organ and produces new shoots every year.

The dark green leaves are leathery, elevated and shaped, with five to nine lanceolate, sawn segments. They often stay green over winter and give the plant an evergreen character.

The flowers are the most striking feature of the plant. They appear individually or in small groups of upright, unexpected stems. The flowers reach a diameter of 5 to 8 centimeters and consist of five large, white sailors that become greenish after the flowering period. The actual crown leaves are reduced to small, nectar -bearing hoses. In the middle of the flower there are numerous yellow stamens and several amniotic pitils, which develop to be set up after pollination. The flowering period extends from December to March, depending on the climatic conditions.

Distribution and Habitat

Helleborus niger subsp. niger is mainly at home in the limestone Alps and in the mountains of the northern Balkans. It prefers limescale, well -permeable soils and grows in light forests, on forest edges or on open, stony meadows. The plant thrives at altitudes between 300 and 1800 meters and is well adapted to winter conditions.

Ecology

The early heyday of Helleborus niger subsp. Niger makes it an important source of food for polluting insects, especially bumblebees and bees that are active on mild winter days. The seeds of the plant are provided with nutrient -rich elaiosomes that attract ants. These spread the seeds through myrmefochory and contribute to the reproduction of the plant.

Toxicology and medical use

Helleborus niger subsp. niger contains toxic substances such as Hellebrin and other heart glycosides. These compounds make the plant toxic to humans and animals, especially when absorbing larger quantities. In traditional medicine, the plant was used for the treatment of heart problems, cramps and as a break. Due to its potential danger, it is rarely used in phytotherapy today.

Horticultural importance

Helleborus niger subsp. niger is a popular ornamental plant, especially because of its flowering in winter, which is often associated with Christmas traditions in Europe. It is often cultivated in shady gardens, stone gardens or under trees. The plant prefers limestone floors and requires regular moisture, but without waterlogging. Due to its robustness and durability, it is very valued in garden design.

Conservation status and threats

Although Helleborus niger subsp. niger still happens relatively frequently in its natural distribution area, overuse can endanger local populations through the game collection and habitat loss due to agricultural interventions or development. In order to prevent this, the trade in wild copies is restricted in many regions, and the plant is increasingly increased by cultivation.