Lenten Rose

The Lenten rose or hybrid oriental hellebore, Helleborus x hybridus, is a medium-sized, clump-forming, evergreen perennial which comes in a wide range of flower colours. The glossy, green leaves are divided into three leaflets. The flowers, single or double, come in shades of yellow, white, pink, deepest slate and plum, the lighter colours often delicately freckled; despite the name, Lenten roses appear long before Lent begins, and last until Easter. They are particularly good with snowdrops or other early bulbs; they are also a good early nectar source for pollinators. Cut off old, spotted leaves in late winter to fully reveal and better set off the flowers.

Site: Sheltered
Soil: Moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil, alkaline preferred
Position: Partial shade preferred; will tolerate full sun in reliably moist soil
Flowering period: January to April
Hardiness: Very hardy
Height: 20” (50cm) Spread: 20” (50cm)