Plant of the Month: Hellebores

What’s not to like about Hellebores?! Also known as the Christmas or lenten rose, Hellebores are one of the few perennials that emerge in the winter months, flowering from December through to spring.

Appearance

• Hellebores have nodding flowers in shades of green, white, pink, ruby or even deep red/purple.
• Some varieties can be striped, spotted or picotee, with flowers being double or single.
• The leaves are usually evergreen / semi-evergreen with a bold shape to create a good foliage around the flowers.
• Most varieties do not get above 30-45cm, but do multiply quickly.

Where to Plant Them

• These tough little plants tolerate a wide range of conditions, from full sun to almost full shade. They prefer moisture retentive soil but struggle in boggy / very wet conditions as well as extreme dry.
• They lend themselves to naturalistic, informal planting schemes and are perfect partners for spring bulbs and evergreen ferns.
• They work great as underplanting for shrubs at the front of a border where they will be seen; in a woodland setting; or planted on a bank where their nodding heads can be viewed from below.
• For the best display, plant them in groups and give them plenty of room to spread.

Pests and Diseases

• The biggest risk to Hellebores is leaf spot. A fungal infection that appears as unsightly brown and black marks on the leaves.
• Remove old foliage when new leaves emerge and remove any leaves throughout the year that shows signs of leaf spot. This will reduce the risk of it spreading.

Plant Care

• Hellebores are easy to grow and undemanding. They can be planted any time of the year as long as the soil isn’t frozen.
• Cut back the large leathery leaves when new flowers and foliage emerge and mulch plants annually with well-rotted compost or manure.
• Avoid moving hellebores once they are established.

Varieties to Consider

• Helleborus niger
• Helleborus x hybridus
• Helleborus orientalis.

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