QUESTION: I’ve been experiencing this problem with my hellebores for a couple of years. As the new growth appears, it turns black, becomes contorted and ultimately dies. I’ve sprayed with fungicide, but it hasn’t helped. Now my neighbour has the same issue with her hellebores, and I’m afraid it will spread to all of my other hundreds of hellebores. JAMES, BLUE MOUNTAINS, NSW
ANSWER: This affliction is common in the UK, New Zealand and Japan, where it ominously goes by the name Hellebore ‘Black Death,’ reminiscent of the Plague. It is caused by a virus, which means no chemical control is available. Some experts recommend removing the affected leaves and burning them, followed by feeding the plant to encourage vigour and fresh growth. The Royal Horticultural Society UK strongly suggests removing the entire plant from the garden to prevent aphids from spreading the virus further to healthy plants.
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