Hellebores are evergreen perennials that can remain in the landscape for ten years or more. They perform best when planted in partial shade in moist, organic, well-draining soil. Hellebores pair well with other shade-loving plants such as azaleas, flowering dogwoods (Cornus florida and Cornus alternifolia), Mahonia, Heuchera, Epimedium, pansies, and begonias, creating layered and visually interesting plantings.
While hellebores are valued for their durability, it is important to note that the plant is toxic to humans and pets if ingested in large amounts. Deer tend to avoid hellebores, as both the foliage and flowers act as natural deterrents. In wet years, slugs can become an issue, as they are attracted to tender new leaves and developing flowers.
There are more than 20 species of hellebores, with approximately eight commonly available in the retail market. Notable species include Helleborus foetidus (stinking hellebore), H. argutifolius (sharp-leaved or holly-leaved hellebore), H. niger (Christmas rose), H. orientalis (Lenten rose), H. viridis (bear’s foot hellebore), and H. lividus. Many garden varieties fall under Helleborus × hybridus, a broad group of hybrids selected for flower color and form.
When purchasing multiple hellebores for a planting, it is recommended to buy them while in bloom, as flower color can vary significantly within series and cultivars. Many hellebores do not flower until they are fully established, typically after two to three years in the landscape.
Older foliage may be trimmed back at any time and should be removed to encourage fresh growth. Hellebores can be transplanted if the entire root ball is carefully lifted and moved. After flowering, seedlings often appear around the base of the parent plant. These young plants may be transplanted successfully when moved with their full root systems intact, though they establish best when relocated in small clumps rather than individually.
Hellebores are especially valued for their ability to bloom in winter and very early spring. On mild winter days, bees can often be seen collecting nectar and pollen from hellebore flowers, making them an important early food source for pollinators.
During the cold, gray days of February, few plants offer as much encouragement as hellebores in bloom. Their flowers provide a welcome reminder that spring is approaching and add life and color to the winter garden.
