Hellebores

Hellebores are often called the “winter jewels” of the garden and rightly so. There are very few plants that display the vibrancy and color of blooms in the dead of winter.

Newer varieties are being developed every year with stunning colors and unique variations.

Hellebores are easy-to-grow perennials that have the ability to withstand frost and frigid temperatures.

Many types of hellebores are available and the most popular in nurseries are the hybrid varieties (Helleborus orientalis). They are sometimes referred to as “Lenten roses”. These hybrids have big, colorful flowers sometimes with variations, veining and shadings. Colors usually come in red, pink, purple, yellow and white. Flowers are usually single but double-flowering varieties are also available.

Hellebores are attractive as either specimen plants (they will eventually develop into a bushy plant) or massed together. They are especially nice to use along woodland trails and planted beneath larger shrubs like rhododendron. A position is part-shade and away from strong winds is best. They do fine in either dry or moist soils (moist is recommended) as long as there is good drainage. Fertile soils will give the best performance. If planting in clay soil, add generous amounts of compost and loam to the planting hole. A layer of well-rotted manure and mulch will get them off to a great start. Alfafa or cottonseed is also a good fertilizer. Every few years, a handful of dolomite lime will neutralize acidity. Try and choose a location with certainty as they are sometimes difficult to move successfully.

By the end of winter, the leaves will most likely begin to look ratty. Old leaves should be removed as soon as flowers open. The foliage of the hellebore is also very attractive with long leafstalks ending in leathery leaves that extend outward.

These perennials are long-lived and add distinctive character to the winter garden.