Hellebore Winter Rose

Helleborus × hybridus (likely from Helleborus orientalis)

Evergreen herbaceous perennial of the buttercup family, forming a rosette of thick waxy leaves and known for its Winter flowering. We’ve had these under deciduous alders and wild pears, and under tree lucerne (evergreen but light shade) in our food forest for many years, and have loved how they colonise areas of dry shade which are often hard to find plants for. From mid-winter the flowers open in various hues of white, cream, pink, mauve and plum, often with pretty coloured speckles. The flowers are made up from five sepals, not petals, which remain on the plant for many months, adding to their attraction.

Helleborus orientalis hail from Turkey, Bulgaria, Ukraine, and the Caucasus. They enjoy full to part shade in summer, and some sunlight in winter, and grow best in rich, well-draining, neutral to alkaline soil. If they sit in wet soil for a prolonged time they may rot. They are suitable even for the coldest areas of the country, fully capable of popping up through snow, but do well in warm areas too.

Due to their winter flowering, hellebores are a great source of food for bees and other insects when other sources are scarce. Note that these are singles not doubles, which are better for bees:)

Note that all parts of the plant are toxic to humans, dogs, cats, and horse, although it is unlikely any animal will attempt to eat them due to the bitter taste. Handling the plants may also cause Dermatitis.

Over time the plants will self-seed and multiply into clumps, forming a beautiful ground cover in your garden or food forest.

Certified Organic plant in 9cm pot.

Freight: We can send up to 9 plants this size (in 9cm pots) for the same freight price or they can be combined with other grades but this will incur higher freight costs.

More details of freight and packing charges here