Veratrum Formosanum

Veratrum formosanum is a compact false hellebore from the mountain grasslands of Taiwan. Narrow pleated leaves form a basal rosette, from which densely hairy summer stems carry many small, dark maroon flowers. The deep colour rewards close viewing beside a shaded path and is very different from the pale green panicles of larger European species. Slowly spreading rhizomes can form a modest colony in cool humus. Formosanum means from Formosa, an old name for Taiwan. Every part is poisonous, so careful siting and handling are essential.