The Lenten Rose: Winter-Blooming Hellebore

One of the earliest-flowering perennials, Helleborus orientalis is called the Lenten rose because it usually blooms during Lent. The flowers pictured were grown by Elfi Rahr in her Bellevue, Washington garden. For 25 years, Rahr has cross-pollinated favorites and collected seeds of hybrids bearing the largest, most vividly colored blossoms.

This evergreen perennial is hardy in all Sunset climate zones, forming 12–18 inch tall clumps of glossy dark green leaves. Blossoms, about 2 inches wide, come in shades of rose, pink, purple, green, yellow, and white.

Around the first of the year, many gardeners cut leaves off at ground level so flowers are easier to see. Once pollinated, flowers fade to green, then handsome seed pods form and new bright green leaves emerge.

Many nurseries offer blooming plants for sale this month. Good mail-order source: Gossler Farms Nursery (1200 Weaver Rd., Springfield, OR 97478; 541/746-3922); catalog $2.

Hellebores do best in rich soil with good drainage. Flourish in shade of high-branched trees or on north/east sides of buildings. In Northwest coastal climates, can take full sun if soil is constantly moist.