Lenten Rose Helleborus orientalisHellebores are native to Asia and eastern Europe. They were documented in literature over a thousand years before the time of Christ. Fast-forward 3500 years to 2005, when Hellebores were recognized as the Perennial Plant of the Year by the Perennial Plant Association. The honor was a long time coming, but is well deserved. Modern hybrids bloom in a spectrum of colors, ranging from the traditional white and creamy pale green and yellow, to newer red, violet and blue hues. Best of all, many species of Helleborus boast flowers in mid-winter, even in cold climates.
Their dark leaves are leathery and evergreen, requiring only minimal care in spring to tidy them up when a new flush of leaves appear to replace the fading foliage from the past season. Need more reasons to grow Hellebores? The plant is virtually free from pests, including hungry deer and other wildlife foraging for food. Numerous varieties of Hellebore are available in local garden centers and mail order sources; plants may need a few years to settle in and reward the patient gardener with some much-needed cheer in the dreary winter months. » Read more about this plant 6 vendors have this plant for sale.
|  Type of plant: Perennials
Bloom color: Pink, Purple, White/Near White
Bloom time of year: Late Winter/Early Spring, Mid Spring
Sun requirements: Partial to Full Shade
Cold hardiness: Zone 4a to Zone 9b
Height: 12-18 in. (30-45 cm)
Spacing: 15-18 in. (38-45 cm)
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