Shade Perennial

Lenten Rose

Botanical Name: Helleborus orientalis
Height: 18" to 24" +
Spread: 18" to 24" +
Exposure: Part Shade to Shade
Care: Clean up any old leaves in spring (if needed) to tidy plantings
Extremely Deer Resistant
This evergreen beauty flowers during the late winter when the garden seems devoid of any hope of spring. They are often the first flowers of the season. They have a long bloom time, into the spring with 2-3" flowers in shades of pink, cream, plum, and red resembling single roses, which nod towards the ground. It makes this worthy of a trip to inspect the garden even on a winter day. Snowdrops (an early spring blooming bulb) may be pushing out of the ground at the same time, and make good companions. When not in bloom the foliage is still attractive. It is a deep shiny green, and combines well with other plantings. It is mound forming, with large leaves. In time, it will self sow and form colonies. It is slow to spread and grow however, so have patience. Plants do not like to be moved once established, so pick a permanent spot for them. Great combinations: 'Fringed Bleeding Heart', 'Hostas' (especially variegated varieties), 'Maidenhair Ferns' and 'Lungwort'