Natural World's Malodorous Species: A Justification of their Role in Nature's Processes
In the realm of nature, there are plants that stand out from the crowd due to their distinctive and often unpleasant odours. Two such plants, the stinking hellebore (*Helleborus foetidus*) and the stinking iris (*Iris foetidissima*), have intrigued and puzzled observers for centuries.
These plants, which can be found in shady woodland and hedge banks, have evolved their strong scents as a defence mechanism against herbivores. The stinking hellebore, a clumpy evergreen native to southern Europe and the Middle East, naturalised in both garden and wild locations, is known by several names, including 'Green Giant', 'Miss Jekyll', dungwort, setterwort, and bear's foot. Its odour, reminiscent of death, is said to attract blowflies, ensuring the distribution of spores.
The stinking iris, on the other hand, releases a distinctive odour when its leaves are bruised, resembling cooking meat to some, and is known by names such as the roast-beef plant, gladdon, gladwin iris, and stinking gladwyn. Its blooms are nectar-rich and much liked by bees.
The symbolism of these plants extends beyond their natural properties. In folklore, the stinking hellebore is often associated with protection and spiritual cleansing, while the stinking iris might symbolize stability and perseverance, as these plants are known for their resilience and ability to thrive in challenging conditions.
The stinking hellebore's flowers lack visual appeal but have a clever process that enhances the plant's chances to attract pollinating insects by colonizing the nectar-producing parts with yeasts. This process, while not visually appealing, is a testament to the plant's adaptability and survival instincts.
The stinking iris produces green seed capsules that reveal vivid scarlet berries throughout winter, which are poisonous to humans and livestock but sought by birds when other food is scarce. This dichotomy between beauty and danger is a common theme in the symbolism of smelly plants.
Stink bugs, also known as shieldbugs, have a dozen or so native species in the UK, including the green, red-and-green hawthorn, birch, gorse, forest, and bronze. Two recent arrivals, the southern green (*Nezara viridula*) and the brown marmorated (*Halyomorpha halys*), have caused concern over crop damage. The brown marmorated stink bug affects more than 100 commercial and ornamental plants and takes winter refuge in homes. Defra has funded a trapping program to monitor its spread.
Ian Morton, a former hard news and motoring journalist, now focuses on the countryside and has contributed to Shooting Times, The Field, and our platform. In his latest article, published in the July 9, 2025 issue of our platform, Morton directs his full attention to the countryside where his origin and main interests always lay. As a lifelong game shot, wildfowler, and stalker, Morton offers a unique perspective on these smelly plants and their role in the natural world.
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The stinking hellebore and the stinking iris, with their distinct odours, are not only found in natural habitats but also thrive in home-and-garden settings, showcasing their adaptability. As for their lifestyle, they have evolved unique defense mechanisms and survival strategies which play a significant role in the intricate web of the natural world.
