What: Oriental hybrid hellebores, with the common name Lenten rose, are a sure-cure for the winter doldrums. In Puget Sound, they typically come into bloom in January, and the flowers last until May. Wondering about the effects of a late snow? No problem with hellebores, as they will bloom above it. They are best placed on a hillside or rise where you can look up at the nodding flower to see its details. They are available in various colors and blends — white, pastels, freckled, picotee edged, single and double flowers. As if that is not enough, they are evergreen. Their large, dark green leaves are pruned away in December or January as the flowers emerge. Later the new leaves appear, filling out the plant. They are a wonder of nature, and there are colors and sizes for every taste. Why aren’t you on your way to the nursery?
Sun/shade: Hellebores thrive in morning sun and shade. Afternoon sun tends to burn the leaves.
Size: Lenten rose grows to be 12 to 18 inches tall and as wide.
Find them: Full service nurseries will have a better selection of the rare colors and variations, while other outlets will offer narrower but good choices.
— Sandra Schumacher
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