March Perennial of the Month-Hellebores
The weather is warming up. Days are growing longer … we are STARVED to see something blooming by this time of year! Hellebores, also known as Lenten rose, are shy flowers that like to hide behind and under their umbrella-like, palmately shaped leaves. Not as showy or vibrant as the tulips and daffodils that suck up the spotlight this time of year, the hellebore is subtle in color and mannerism and, like a fine, dry red wine-is sometimes an acquired taste.
It can be hard to find locally. By the time most nurseries have perennials available, the hellebores are usually done blooming and overlooked. What did we do before the internet? Once online, countless cultivars abound. Helleborus x hybridus, H. foetidus, and H. orientalis bloom in early spring. Christmas rose (H. niger) blooms in late fall/early winter. All have evergreen foliage, but in St. Louis, the leaves can look a little raggedy and worn by the end of winter. Cutting down the old foliage doesn’t hurt the plant; it will grow new leaves once spring gets rolling.
I like to plant them in raised places such as the top of a retaining wall or berm so you can see the flowers better without standing on your head. Trimming the foliage does help to appreciate the flowers as well. Hellebores like shade to part-shade. A little protection from harsh winds is appreciated, as is organic-rich, moist but well-drained soil.
What I love about this plant-It’s a charming addition to a shade garden where the palmate leaves contrast nicely with hostas and ferns all season. The flower colors are subtle, usually white to dark burgundy, so it doesn’t clash with anything. Very good manners in the garden. Deer tolerant. Doesn’t mind dry shade.
What I don’t like-the evergreen foliage can be pretty ugly by mid-winter. Just trim it off carefully, so you don’t accidentally trim off the flower buds too. Does not like to be transplanted, so choose your spot wisely and let it be.
Words and photos by Jo Batzer
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