Helleborus x hybridus (Lenten rose)
2005 Perennial Plant of the Year
Zones 4 to 9
Light to moderate shade
Cup-shaped, long lasting flower blooms appear in late winter to early spring, over clumps of glossy, thick, leathery evergreen leaves. Mature evergreen mounds are 18 to 24 inches tall and 24 to 30 inches wide.
Helleborus prefer alkaline, medium wet, well-drained, organically rich, fertile soil. Plant them on a raised spot to admire their nodding flowers and so the heavy seeds will spread downhill. Try to decide on a good home early, as Helleborus does not like to be moved. Tolerates summer heat, humidity and dry conditions, but protect from winter winds.
Lenten rose was formerly known as Helleborus orientalis hybrids.
Enjoy cut flowers while promoting new foliage growth. Use in mass as ground cover, in rock gardens, as a border, and in containers. Also deer and rabbit resistant.
Helleborus may have been used as protection against witches, madness and evil spirits, as well as for many medicinal purposes, but -- CAUTION: Leaves, stems and roots are poisonous, and may cause skin irritation.