Description
Common Name: Lenten Rose, Christmas Rose
Growth Habit
Lenten Rose are fairly short plants generally growing in a bushy clump between 12 and 24 inches tall and wide. They are most impressive when in bloom. Depending on the variety they will bloom sometime between November and April. These unique flowers will last around 3 months. The flowers are available in a wide array of colors: yellow, white, pink, slate blue, black, red, spotted and light with dark edged petals. As a perennial plant they will bloom year after year.
These perennials are at their happiest in woodland like conditions with rich, well-drained soil and partial, dappled sunlight. They are paired well with plants like ferns, hostas and other woodland shade plants. Hellebore are fairly easy to grow though and can thrive in a wide range of conditions.
Year-Round Enjoyment
Growing Hellebore in containers is a great option. It has the benefit of containing the plant clumps and also raising up the flowers. In pots the plants can be positioned where you will enjoy them more fully in the winter, when they are in bloom, even when the cold temperatures keep you inside. Most hellebore flowers are downward-facing. Elevating the plants in containers gives you a better view of their extraordinary flowers.
Although Hellebore blooms are exceptional, the foliage of these evergreens is also lovely throughout the year. The toothed leaves are typically a glossy, dark green held up on maroon or green stems. The leaves can also have white veining, adding to their year-round appeal.
Plant Care
Hellebous are easy to grow, but a little bit of maintenance can enhance their appeal. Annually you should prune them back to ground level to remove old, damaged leaves. You should should do this in the winter, just before they push new growth. The other common issue that you may keep an eye out for are aphids and slugs attracted to the new growth.
Helleborus Species & Series |
Helleborus nigerThese plants produce white flowers early. Their extra-large blooms are forward facing. Height: 8-18″ |
Helleborus nigerThese plants produce white flowers early. Their extra-large blooms are forward facing. Height: 8-18″ |
Helleborus x ballardiaeThese plants are a cross between Helleborus lividus and Helleborus niger. They bloom mid winter. These prolific bloomers are perfect for containers. Height: 12-24″ |
Helleborus x ericsmithiiThese plants are a cross between Helleborus x sternii and Helleborus niger. They bloom later in the winter. They feature very dark leaves and stems. Height: 12-24″ |
 Frostkiss® SeriesThese plants are known for being beautiful, tough, and easy to grow. They are some of the easiest to maintain. They bloom late, transitioning into early spring. They are more compact plants with attractive marbled foliage. Height: 12-24″ |
 Ice N’ Roses® SeriesThese plants are especially vigorous with strong stems and lots of bloom. They have a long bloom period and can handle most types of sun exposure. Height: 12-24″ |
 North Star™ SeriesThese are hybrid orientalis varieties with amazing blooms. They bloom early with double flowers. Perfect for containers. Height: 12-24″ |
Winter Ballet SeriesThese plants, Helleborus x lemperii, is a cross between Helleborus niger and Helleborus x hybridus. They produce large, upright flowers on strong stems. Height: 12-20″ |
