CHRISTMAS ROSE
Christmas rose, black helleboreHelleborus niger—RANUNCULACEAE
Christmas rose, black helleboreHelleborus niger—RANUNCULACEAE
Description:In warmer climates, the large blossoms of this plant appear in midwinter, hence, the common name Christmas rose. However, these develop much earlier in fall or later in spring in New England and other northern areas.
The plant is a perennial evergreen herb with a black underground stem and roots. Each year a single palmately divided leaf and flower stalk form, the latter with one or two large purplish-white flowers, each with five petals and a yellow center whorl of flower parts. Found in gardens usually as a cultivated plant.
Poisonous Parts:An intensely irritating glycoside principle,helleborein, has been found in the leaves and roots. This probably accounts for much of the skin inflammation caused on contact with bruised parts or the juice of this plant. Other poisonous glycosides and alkaloids which affect the heart (similar to the effects of digitalis) and nervous system (as from aconite) are also present. If ingested, the plant may cause vomiting, tingling and numbing sensations in the mouth, and violent purgation.
Antidote:Call your doctor. Wash the skin at once with soap and water if the juice of the plant is in contact with it. Have patient vomit if any part has been eaten. Physicians treat for dermatitis and vesication if a contact poisoning. When there is evidence of much ingestion treat fordigitalisoraconitinepoisoning, depending upon symptoms.