Helleborus x hybridus cvs. (Hellebore)

Helleborus x hybridus cvs. Photo/Illustration: Steve Aitken



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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Helleborus x hybridus cvs. hel-LEB-or-us ex HY-brid-us Common Name: Hellebore Genus: Helleborus
These hybrids of H. orientalis and other species have a clump-forming habit and leathery leaves. They begin blooming in mid-winter in a range of colors, adding much needed color very early in the season.
Noteworthy characteristics: Can bloom when the temperature is below freezing, even amidst the snow. Protect from cold winter winds, especially when not insulated by snow, to avoid damaged foliage. Avoid ingestion of all plant parts and contact with the sap.
Care: Best grown in humus-rich, neutral to alkaline, medium moisture, well-drained soils in part shade to full shade. Prefers light to moderate shade. Tolerant of summer heat and humidity. Cut back flowering stems after bloom to promote new foliage growth. Locate plants in areas protected from cold winter winds.
Propagation: Divide after flowering, or sow seeds in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe. (Named cvs. will not come true from seed.)
Problems: Slugs, snails, aphids, leaf spot, and black rot.
Height 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Growth Habit Clumps
Growth Pace Moderate Grower
Light Part Shade to Full Shade
Moisture Medium Moisture
Maintenance Low
Tolerance Frost Tolerant
Characteristics Showy Flowers
Bloom Time Spring; Winter
Foliage Color Evergreen
Flower Color Green Flower; Pink Flower; Purple/ Lavender Flower; White Flower; Yellow Flower
Uses Beds and Borders, Shade, Naturalizing, Poisonous
Style Rock Garden, Woodland Garden
Seasonal Interest Winter Interest, Spring Interest
Type Perennials

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