Helleborus 'Spanish Flare'

Helleborus 'Spanish Flare': A Dramatic Bloom with Fiery Elegance
Vivid and alluring, Helleborus 'Spanish Flare' sets the winter garden aglow with fully double blooms in creamy yellow, each petal dramatically edged in deep burgundy. The striking bicolour pattern creates the look of a flamenco flourish, adding movement and vibrancy to shady beds when little else is in flower. A standout from the Wedding Party™ series, this hellebore brings bold energy and long-lasting interest to the quiet season, all while maintaining a graceful, well-rounded form.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 35–45 cm
• Spread: 40–50 cm, forming a compact, upright clump
• Flower Colour: Cream to soft yellow with dark burgundy picotee edges and veining; fully double
• Flowering Period: Late winter to early spring
• Foliage: Glossy, evergreen, dark green leaves with a sturdy, palmate structure
• Sunlight Requirements: Partial shade to full shade
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil; thrives in neutral to alkaline conditions and tolerates clay if well-drained

Uses and Benefits: Spanish Flare is ideal for injecting bold contrast and a touch of drama into shaded borders, woodland gardens, and winter containers. Its intense bicolour flowers draw attention even in low light, making it a focal point when most of the garden is still asleep. Long-lasting blooms, evergreen foliage, and deer resistance make this hellebore both ornamental and practical, offering multi-season interest with very little maintenance.

Companion Plants: Pair Spanish Flare with Tiarella 'Sugar and Spice', whose frosted foliage and pinkish flower spikes soften the drama and complement the burgundy detailing. Add Heuchera 'Lime Marmalade', whose vibrant foliage creates electric contrast against the hellebore’s dark-edged blooms. Finish the combination with Dryopteris 'Eastern Wood Fern', which offers a feathery texture and native woodland feel that ties the planting together naturally.

Care Instructions: Plant in partial to full shade in moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Water during establishment and mulch annually to maintain soil moisture. In late winter, remove old foliage to allow the blooms to take centre stage. Hellebores prefer not to be disturbed, but clumps can be divided in early spring if necessary.

History: Bred by Hans Hansen of Walters Gardens, Helleborus 'Spanish Flare' is part of the Wedding Party™ series, known for its double flowers, unique colour combinations, and strong performance. This cultivar was selected for its bold contrast, sturdy habit, and ability to brighten the darkest corners of the garden.

Final Thoughts: With its flamenco-like flair and high-contrast charm, Helleborus 'Spanish Flare' dances through the winter garden in shades of gold and burgundy. A captivating choice for gardeners who favour strong colour and refined form, it offers a burst of warmth and elegance just when the garden needs it most. A true showpiece for the season's earliest stage.