Helleborus orientalis (Lenten rose)

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Hellebores are among the earliest perennials to flower, often blooming while winter is still lingering. Their nodding blooms provide vital early nectar, and the evergreen foliage makes a year-round feature.

Helleborus orientalis, commonly known as the Lenten rose, brings gentle colour to the garden when little else is flowering. Its nodding, cup‑shaped blooms open in soft pink shades from late winter into early spring, hovering above handsome, leathery green foliage.

This clump‑forming perennial grows to around 45cm tall and wide, making it easy to tuck into borders, underplant shrubs, or feature in large pots near a doorway. The flowers are long‑lasting and look lovely with early bulbs, grasses and spring woodland plants.

Plant in fertile, humus‑rich soil that stays moist but drains freely. A spot in partial shade is ideal, though it will also cope with some sun in cooler areas. Choose a sheltered position and mulch in autumn to keep the roots comfortable through winter.

Set plants at the same depth they were growing in the pot, water in well, and keep evenly moist while they establish. In late winter, tidy away tired leaves to show off the flowers and reduce leaf‑spot problems. Feed with a balanced fertiliser in spring.

Because hellebores flower early, they can provide nectar and pollen for emerging bees when other sources are scarce. Once established they’re low‑fuss, returning each year with reliable winter‑into‑spring interest and a fresh flush of foliage as temperatures rise.

Botanical name Helleborus orientalis (Lenten rose)
Flower colour Pink
Tuber size Grade I (Top Size)
Established height 45 cm
Established spread 45 cm
Plant spacing 4 per m²
Leaf colour Green
Habit Clump-forming
Life cycle Perennial
Hardiness Fully hardy
Years to establish 1st year
Sunlight Full sun, Partial shade
Position Exposed or Sheltered
Suitable for Pots, Borders, Cutting garden
Soil acidity Any
Soil moisture Moist but well-drained
Soil type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
RHS Award (AGM) No
Growing skill Easy to grow
Pollinator-friendly Yes
Deer resistant No

Where to Plant:

Helleborus orientalis does best in partial shade with moisture-retentive, well-drained soil. It’s excellent under deciduous shrubs and in woodland borders where it gets winter light but summer shelter.

How to Plant:

Plant in early autumn or spring. Set the crown at soil level, firm in and water well. Allow about 45cm between plants so clumps can develop without competition.

Aftercare:

Mulch annually with compost, water during prolonged dry spells, and remove old leaves in late winter to showcase flowers. Avoid frequent moving once established—hellebores prefer to settle in.

Planting and Flowering Calendar

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Key Features

Packed in paper

Packed peat-free

Great for Shade

Low maintenance

Rodent resistant

£11.89

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