46 FLORA AND THALIA. 



BLACK HELLEBORE, OR CHRISTMAS ROSE. 



(^Helleborus niger.') 



The Christmas Rose, so called from its flowering 

 about Januar}', is perennial, and a native of Austria 

 and Italy. It was unknown in our garden, till cul- 

 tivated by Mr. John Gerard, in 1596. It has a 

 pleasing appearance in our parterres, at a time of 

 the year when all around it looks dull and gloomy. 

 The Ancients used to esteem this plant a powerful 

 remedy in maniacal diseases ; but as the same effects 

 may be produced with more certainty and safety by 

 other medicines, the use of it is now almost entirely 

 abandoned, as it is well known to be poisonous. 

 However, as agreat acquisition to the flower border, 

 we recommend its cultivation. 



Class, PoLrANDRiA. Order, Poltgynia. 



