Helleborus are one of the most interesting Perennials found in the west coast gardens. After all, how many plants do you know that like to grow in shade and bloom in winter, or very early spring? They are highly valued by gardeners for their ability to brighten up the garden at the dreariest time of year.
In 2005, Hybrid Hellebores were named Perennial Plant of the Year. There is no doubt that their popularity is ever increasing.
Helleborus or Hellebores are native to parts of Europe and Western Asia and are members of the Ranunculaceae, or Buttercup family of plants. Many species are poisonous so they should be sited with care. They produce strikingly attractive, usually multi-coloured flowers that tend to nod or face downwards. Hellebores prefer shade or part shade and do well in moist, but well drained, humus-rich soil conditions
Hellebores have enjoyed a lot of popularity lately and as a result many new varieties are commonly available. Some of the most common types include:
Helleborus niger - Christmas Rose
This variety is known by its common name: Christmas RoseIts name comes from the fact that its pure white flowers appear in mid-winter, often right around Christmas. Leaves are deeply lobed and mid-green in colour. Regular moisture is required. This plant is hardy in zones 3-9
Helleborus orientalis - Lenten Rose
The Lenten Rose is the most common variety of Helleborus. It is clump forming with dense foliage. Extremely variable, hundreds of different strains, colour patterns and shades are available. White, green, pink, rose and purple are all common flower colours for this variety. H. orientalis blooms later in the season than the Christmas Rose. This evergreen is hardy in zones 6-10.
Helleborus foetidus - Stinking Hellebore
The stinking hellebore is a clump forming plant with dark green foliage and clusters of drooping pale green flowers edged in red that bloom in winter or early spring. Self-seeds readily. H. foetidus 'Wester Flisk' is a commonly available variety. Hardy in zones 6-10.
Helleborus argutifolius - Corsican Hellebore
This clump-forming hellebore offers large clusters of nodding, cup-shaped pale green flowers. One of the earliest to bloom, with flowers appearing in late winter or early spring. Of the helleborus, it is also the most sun and drought tolerant. Foliage is deep green and divided. Hardy in zones 6-9.
Double Helleborus
One of the most sought after types of Hellebores today are the double varieties. These types have two rows of flower petals. Many varieties and colours are available.
Hellebore Care
Caring for these plants is relatively easy. Remove the flower heads after the seeds drop. Add compost or manure as a top dress after flowering. Although many varieties are technically evergreen, their foliage can look rather ragged and tattered after the winter. Many gardeners prefer to prune off older leaves back to the ground in late winter so the blooms look their best. It is best to use gloves when working with Hellebores as their foliage can cause mild skin irritation in some people. This characteristic also works to keep deer away. Helleborus tend to resent being moved or divided so it is best to choose a site and leave them undisturbed. They can be divided in the Spring or Fall, but expect this plant to sulk for several years before it rebounds and flowers again.
