Hellebores. Evergreen Now, First Flowers in March.

by Mouton Noir
Hellebores. Evergreen Now, First Flowers in March.

Most perennials spend winter underground.

Hellebores spend it on guard duty. Their leathery leaves stay green under the snow, and as soon as it melts, the flower buds are already waiting.

FIRST ONE IN. LAST ONE OUT.

PLANT CHARACTERISTICS

  • Botanical Name: Helleborus hybrids, often called Lenten Rose
  • Native: No, the wild species come from Europe and western Asia
  • Height: 30–45 cm (12–18 in)
  • Spread: 45–60 cm (18–24 in)
  • Light: Part shade to full shade
  • Soil: Rich, moist, well-drained soil. Handles dry shade once established.
  • Hardiness: Zone 4 to 5, depending on the variety
  • Season of Interest: Evergreen leaves all year. Flowers from late March into May, lasting for weeks.
  • Wildlife: An early food source for queen bumblebees. Deer and rabbits leave it alone.

USES

Plant Hellebores in shade beds, under deciduous trees and in woodland gardens. Put them where you'll actually see them in early spring, like beside the front walk or near the back door. The flowers nod downward, so a slope or raised bed lets you look up into them.

COMPANION PLANTS

They're great with Pulmonaria and Epimedium, which bloom around the same time. Add Christmas fern for more winter green, and Hostas to fill in the space once the hellebore flowers fade.

PRODUCT CARE

Plant them where they can stay. Hellebores don't love being moved. Water regularly in the first season. In early spring, before the flowers open, cut off last year's old, tattered leaves so the flowers can show and leaf spot doesn't spread. A layer of compost each spring keeps them happy. All parts of the plant are toxic if eaten, and the sap can irritate skin, so wear gloves when you trim them.

HISTORY

Hellebores have been grown in European gardens for centuries. The name Lenten Rose comes from their habit of blooming around Lent. Their toxic sap is exactly why deer, rabbits and voles leave them alone.

VARIETIES WE CARRY

FINAL THOUGHTS

They ask for shade and a little patience.

THEN THEY SHOW UP BEFORE ANYONE ELSE.

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