Common name:
Lenten Rose
Christmas Rose
Botanical name:
Helleborus spp.
There are approximately 15 different species of hellebores and are native to much of Europe, as well as parts of Asia and China. While they are not related to a rose, the common names refer to winter bloom times which contain the Lenten and Christmas seasons.
All parts of hellebores are toxic when ingested and can cause skin irritations in some people. Due to its toxicity, it is rarely eaten by deer or rabbits.
- Light Requirements: Part to full shade
- Water Requirements: Prefers drier soils if planted with rich organic matter
- Characteristics: Hellebores are a mostly evergreen perennial with an attractive, bushy growth habit, typically 12 to 24 inches. They are noted for flowering in late winter or early spring. Flowers are in muted shades of white, green, pink, purple and near black.
- Uses: Because they tolerate dry, heavy shade, they don’t need to compete for water like other perennials do. That makes them excellent plants for under trees in woodland gardens, as shady borders or groundcovers. They also perform well in containers with plants that have similar needs.
- Interesting Facts: Hellebores make great cut flowers and because of their early blooming nature and delicate flowers, they are sought after for bridal bouquets, centerpieces and other arrangements for winter weddings. In medieval Europe, the flowers were often used to decorate wreaths or garlands during the Christmas season.
- Varieties:
- Helleborus x. ‘Anna’s Red’ (FrostKiss Series) has rosy red flowers which fade to burgundy and lush marbled foliage.
- Helleborus x. nigercors ‘Honeyhill Joy’ has large, outfacing creamy colored flowers over shiny, blue tinged foliage.
- Helleborus x. ‘Pippa’s Purple’ (FrostKiss Series) has smoky pink flowers with burgundy flecks. The soft green foliage has a unique marbling.
The colored “petals,” are actually sepals, which are little protective wrappers for the flowers inside
Tough, evergreen leaves and unique flowers are deer and rabbit resistant!
Hellebores are in the Ranunculaceae family, and related to anemones, peonies, and buttercups
These lovely perennials thrive in shaded areas, making them perfect for a woodland garden
