Christmas Roses

Helleborus (hel-eh-BORE-us)

Family: Ranunculaceae Non-native Groundcover

Hellebores are a genus of bushy, clumping, herbaceous perennials in the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae) native to Europe, Morocco and temperate Asia. The genus contains 22 species and many hybrids that are commonly grown in gardens for their evergreen foliage and winter or early spring-blooming flowers. The genus name comes from the Greek words bora, meaning "food," and helein, meaning "injures/destroys," in reference to the plant’s toxic leaves, stems and roots, which are poisonous to humans if ingested. Hellebores do well in organically rich, well-drained, alkaline soils in light to moderate shade. The foliage is evergreen, but it may become scorched and tattered in extremely harsh winters. Old leaves can be cut to the ground before the plants flower. It is best grown where the plant is protected from cold winter winds. Cut back flowering stems after bloom to promote new foliage growth. Established plants can become congested, but can be divided in late summer to early fall. Hybrid hellebores are often grown from seed, but plants will take two years to bloom when grown from seed. Deer and rabbits tend to avoid this plant. These plants can be grown in mass plantings in shady locations or where the clumps will slowly spread through self-seeding. A few species are weedy and may become a problem. Hellebores typically grow to 12 to 15 inches tall. They are noted for producing single, cup-shaped flowers (typically 2 to 3 inches in diameter) in a large variety of colors, including various shades and tints of white, pink, red, purple, and yellow. Blossoms usually appear on the ends of branched stems in late winter, extending into early spring. The leaves are evergreen and dark green, glossy, leathery, deeply lobed and often toothed. Hellibores are garden stalwarts that fit in just about any landscape theme, including winter, shade, and cottage gardens. They make effective ground covers or additions to the border. Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems: No serious insect or disease problems. Crown rot and leaf spot are occasional problems. Leaves, stems and roots are poisonous.

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 55 attributes.