Veratrum viride

Veratrum viride is known as Indian hellebore.  It is not a true hellebore; it belongs to the Melanthiaceae, not Ranunculaceae.  This picture was taken on the road to Rennell Sound on Haida Gwaii.

 

 

 

 

It is found in wet areas, common to meadows in alpine regions (like Cypress Mountain where this picture was taken).

 

 

 

 

 

The inflorescence hangs downward.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The flowers are greenish and like other monocots has floral parts in threes.

 

 

 

 

 

While very toxic, this plant was used medicinally by many First Nations people.

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