Hellebores: the perfect shade loving flower of early spring
Hellebores, often called Lenten Roses, are one of the earliest perennials to bloom—sometimes even peeking through the snow!
Their delicate, nodding flowers and evergreen foliage make them a favorite among those who crave early spring color. The fact that they’re also shade loving plants that deer and other critters rarely touch make them a rare jewel in the flower growing world.
Below you’ll find information on how to grow them, favorite varieties, and tips for harvesting.
How to Grow Hellebores
Hellebores are hardy, low-maintenance plants that thrive in shady or partially shaded spots. Here’s what they love:
Soil: Rich, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter.
Light: Partial to full shade. Morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal.
Water: Keep soil moist but not soggy. Once established, they’re fairly drought-tolerant.
Planting: Fall or early spring is the best time to plant them. Give them space—they don’t like being disturbed once settled.
How to Include Hellebores in Your Landscape
Hellebores are wonderful for putting into edges of woods and under deciduous trees. Because they’re early bloomers, they add interest to spaces that are blank in early spring, but they won’t compete with the gorgeous fall colors of trees such as maple and Gingko.
Hellebores will very slowly grow and spread to create a lush evergreen carpet where they’re planted! It may be a couple of years before you have a true harvest of blooms, but the wait is surely worth it - and they’ll continue to provide you with more and more as the years go on.
Hellebores can also be grown in pots, just be sure to use a large enough one that will allow it to expand, and leave it in the spot that’s shady or partially shady.
Top 3 Hellebore Varieties to Grow
Helleborus orientalis (Lenten Rose)
A classic variety that naturalizes well, producing large flowers in shades of pink, purple, and even near-black.Helleborus 'Winter Jewels' Series
This series is known for its unique color patterns—mottled, double, and speckled blooms in purples, pinks, and whites.Helleborus 'Ivory Prince'
Compact and tidy, this variety produces creamy white blooms with hints of pink and green, perfect for containers or borders.
How to Harvest Hellebores in Spring
Hellebores make beautiful, long-lasting cut flowers—if harvested correctly. Here’s how:
Wait until the blooms mature – Look for flowers where the stamens have dropped and seed pods are starting to form. Immature blooms wilt quickly when cut.
Cut at the base of the stem using clean, sharp scissors or garden snips.
Condition the stems by placing them in warm water for several hours before arranging them in a vase.
Tip: For longer vase life, sear the ends of the stems with boiling water or a flame for a few seconds, or use a flame to singe the bottom of the stem.
An early spring bouquet featuring hellebores as the outer edge ingredient.
Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, hellebores are an easy-to-grow flower that provide you with a wonderful way to add beauty to your early spring garden. Give them the right spot and a little patience, and they’ll reward you with years of graceful blooms!