Hellebore

Hellebore is a flowering plant used in Herbology and as an ingredient in Potion-brewing. For example, syrup of hellebore is one ingredient of the Draught of Peace. Many species of hellebore are poisonous.

Appearances

 * Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

Behind the Scenes
Hellebore is a real plant that was used in traditional, early European medicine to treat paralysis, gout, and insanity. However, many varieties of hellebore are toxic, and can cause symptoms ranging from vertigo to cardiac arrest. Some historians believe that Alexander the Great died of a hellebore overdose. In legend, it was believed to be used by witches to summon demons.