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Hellebore flowers are a welcome sight when they bloom in late winter to early spring, sometimes while the ground is still covered in snow. Different varieties of the hellebore plant offer a range of flower colors, from white to black. One of the earliest blooms seen in many areas, nodding hellebore flowers are often fragrant and long-lasting. Growing hellebore is a rewarding task for the gardener. Aside from beautiful and unusual flowers, the hellebore plant has attractive, green foliage that is aesthetically pleasing in the landscape. Once established, hellebore maintenance is minimal. This herbaceous or evergreen perennial is disliked by deer and other animal pests that tend to eat plants. All parts of the Hellebore plant are poisonous, so keep children and pets away.
Tips for Growing Hellebore If planting from seed or division, place the Hellebore in well-draining, organic soil in filtered sun or a shady spot. The Hellebore plant will return for years to come; Make sure the room can accommodate the growth and has adequate sunlight. Hellebore needs no more than a few hours of dappled light and grows successfully in shady areas. Plant the Hellebore under deciduous trees or scattered in a woodland garden or shady natural area
Soaking the soil in which the Hellebore grows will help the Hellebore plant look its best. Hellebore care includes removing older leaves when they appear damaged. Careful fertilization should also be part of the care of hellebore. Too much nitrogen can result in lush foliage and a lack of flowers. Plant hellebore seeds in the fall. When planting seeds of the Hellebore plant, a 60-day wet chilling period is required. Planting seeds in the fall allows this to happen naturally in areas with cold winters. Wait three to four years for young plants to bloom from seed. Divide overgrown clumps in spring, after flowering, or in fall. Types of Helleborus While there are many types of Helleborus, Helleborus orientalis, the Lenten rose, is among the earliest winter bloomers and offers the widest range of colors.
Helleborus foetidus, called the stinking bear’s foot or bear’s paw hellebore, offers flowers a pastel green hue and has an unusual scent that some may dislike; consequently it can be described as smelly. The foliage of Bear’s Foot Hellebore is segmented and serrated, sometimes turning a deep red in cold weather when highly ornamental. Flowers may be bordered in deep red to burgundy color. This Hellebore plant prefers more sun than its oriental counterparts. Helleborus niger, the Christmas rose, has 7.5 cm large flowers of the purest white. Many Hellebore hybrids offer a range of flower colors; Colors often change as they mature. Helleborus care is simple and sensible. Plant a variety of Hellebore in your garden in the shade for a beautiful spring flower.
