Hellebores grow well in the garden but are also quite happy in a large planter. Improve poor garden soil with a mix of compost, granulated cow manure or leaf mould. Plant your Christmas rose at the correct depth - the top of the root ball should be just slightly below soil level. Fill the hole with soil, press firmly and water generously immediately after planting. Hellebores like full sun or partial shade in permeable, fertile soil.
 

Heleborus in the garden

Hellebore (Christmas Rose) really does deserve a prominent spot in your garden. Choose somewhere you can see it from your window, you can then enjoy it from indoors too. Especially when grown in groups, this winter flowering plant will give you so much joy. You can combine with other early flowering plants like cyclamen or primrose.

All Hellebores are strong, hardy garden plants. Make sure the soil around the roots does not dry out and water extra in dry summery weather. A place in partial shade is better than being in full sun. As the plant begins to flower, cut the old leaves right back and the flowers will look even prettier. You will soon see signs of new leaves that will look beautiful through the summer. Cover with a mulch of fallen leaves in winter for protection.

Helleborus orientalis is one of the loveliest of winter flowering plants. Depending on the weather, the first flowers can appear as early as January. After flowering, the seed pods will remain decorative for a long time. Christmas Rose is a hardy, evergreen perennial.
Hellebores are very popular, there are lots of different cultivars available in a wide range of colours. They flourish in the cold winter months, which explains why these perennials are a must for the winter garden.
Another name for the Helleborus is Christmas Rose or Lenten rose. It is actually poisonous if eaten - so advisable to use gloves when pruning.
Hellebores belongs to the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae).