Plant of Merit: Hellebore-Florence picotee

Published 1:30 am Thursday, January 19, 2017

What: Hellebore-Florence picotee commonly called Lenten rose

Hellebores provide color and interest to the winter and early spring garden at a time when other plants are dormant. Double hellebores, like Florence, offer an additional delicate attribute that is more typical of spring flowers. They nod their heads and waft as if made of silk. Lovely anytime, they are simply coveted in the winter when most blooms are committed to our memories and certainly lacking in our gardens. They need rich soil, well drained, and they take some time to recover when transplanted. The best advice is to plant them where you want them to remain, if possible.

Where: Most hellebores require dappled shade. Always check the tag for exposure requirements.

Size: The mature size of H. Florence is 18 inches tall by 24 inches wide.

See it: Find the flowers at local full service nurseries or check the Seattle Flower and Garden Show in February.

Learn more: Read “Hellebores: A Comprehensive Guide” by Burrell &Tyler, Timber Press 2006. Take a class, “The Beauty of Hellebores,” 10 a.m. Feb. 18 at Sunnyside Nursery, 3915 Sunnyside Blvd., Marysville. The class is free but call for a reserved seat.

— Sandra Schumacher