False Hellebore - Veratrum viride

You don't want to mess with this plant. False hellebore is highly toxic and contains steroidal alkaloids that can be very dangerous when eaten in large enough quantities. The roots and young shoots are particularly toxic.

This plant was used by some Native American tribes to elect a new leader. All the candidates would eat the root, and the last to start vomiting would become the new leader.

Habitat: Mixed forest, floodplain

comments (4)

Patomarazul

Lion

It may be nice if you can visit this patch again in 1-2 months when they flower again :-) Posted 3 years ago, modified 3 years ago
1. Christine Young
  
  Lion
  
  This photo is from last April, but I was thinking the same thing -- I'd like to return to this spot in late spring to see them all leafed out and in bloom. I've never seen them in bloom. Posted 3 years ago

Ferdy Christant

Lion

Interesting elections hehe. Posted 3 years ago
1. Christine Young
  
  Lion
  
  Lol, I know it. Questionable strategy for choosing a leader. Posted 3 years ago

The American False Hellebore

''Veratrum viride'' is a species of ''Veratrum'' native to eastern and western North America. It is extremely toxic, and is considered a pest plant by farmers with livestock.

Info 8 0

Similar species: Lilies, Supplejacks, Etc.

Species identified by Christine Young