HELLEBORUS NIGER Meaning and
Definition
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Helleborus niger, commonly known as Christmas rose or black hellebore, is a perennial flowering plant species native to Eastern Europe and parts of the Mediterranean. It belongs to the Ranunculaceae family and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant for its attractive white or pinkish flowers.
The Christmas rose typically grows to a height of about 30-40 centimeters and features leathery, dark green leaves with serrated edges. These leaves are basal and arranged in a rosette formation, with the flowers emerging on stalks above them. The flowers are generally large, measuring around 5-8 centimeters in diameter, and consist of five petal-like sepals that surround a central cluster of tiny, yellow stamens.
As the name suggests, Helleborus niger commonly blooms during the winter months, often appearing in gardens during the festive season of Christmas. Despite being called a rose, it is not actually related to the true roses (genus Rosa). However, it earned the name due to the similarity of its appearance to wild rose flowers.
While Helleborus niger is known for its beauty, it is essential to note that all parts of the plant are highly toxic if ingested and can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms. Therefore, it should be handled with care and kept away from children and pets. Nonetheless, when admired from a safe distance, this perennial plant can add a touch of elegance to winter gardens and brighten up outdoor spaces during the colder months.
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A homoeopathic medicine; the Christmas rose.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for HELLEBORUS NIGER
- gelleborus niger
- belleborus niger
- nelleborus niger
- jelleborus niger
- uelleborus niger
- yelleborus niger
- hwlleborus niger
- hslleborus niger
- hdlleborus niger
- hrlleborus niger
- h4lleborus niger
- h3lleborus niger
- hekleborus niger
- hepleborus niger
- heoleborus niger
- helkeborus niger
- helpeborus niger
- heloeborus niger
- hellwborus niger
Etymology of HELLEBORUS NIGER
The word "Helleborus Niger" has its etymology rooted in Latin. "Helleborus" is derived from the Latin word "helleborus", which comes from the Greek "helleboros". "Helleboros" itself is a compound word consisting of "hellein" (to injure) and "bora" (food/edible). The term "helleboros" was used to describe a plant believed to be an effective remedy for various ailments, although it was also considered poisonous if used improperly.
The term "Niger" in "Helleborus Niger" is also derived from Latin and means "black". It refers to the dark-colored roots of the plant.
