Every summer we hike into the alpine for the wildflower displays. In the wet subalpine meadows, a green robust perennial starts to grow soon after the snows melt.

The plant continues to grow to about 2m in height and has broad pointed leaves. At full height it starts to flower with star-shaped yellow green blossoms on drooping tassels.

When we hike the Trophy Meadows or any moist meadows or wet forests in the Interior subalpine zone, we can come across Indian (false) hellebores.

All parts of the hellebore are poisonous and a range of insecticides are made from them.

• Indian people sometimes referred to it as “skookum” meaning powerful. It was used in sacred ceremonies and for external problems in a diluted solution.
• One Native group used it to select a new leader. Candidates ate some of the plant and the last one standing not vomiting became the chief!
• Other names for it are corn lily and green false hellebore.
• Its Latin name is veratrum viride and is not really part of the hellebore family.
• It is very toxic so leave it alone!