How to Grow Hellebores for Beautiful Blooms That Last All Winter

Hellebores produce large and gorgeous cup-shaped flowers that come in a range of shades, such as white, pink, purple, yellow, and more. These five-petaled flowers bloom in the colder months through the early spring, providing plenty of color and texture when fewer plants are in the garden.

If your winter garden looks a bit sparse, growing hellebores is the perfect solution. Here, we spoke to horticulturists and plant breeders regarding everything you need to know about these beautiful blooms.

Growing in Winter

Hellebores can handle cooler temperatures, and their flowers typically bloom in the winter or early spring.

"Some varieties are evergreen and keep their foliage throughout the year in warmer climates," says  Megan McConnell, horticulturist and plant information director at Monrovia. Most hellebores grow in zones 4 and 5, depending on the variety, allowing them to survive in temperatures below zero and snow.  If you're not sure, check your USDA hardiness zone before you plant them.

"If snow piles up, you can gently brush it off the plants so the stems don’t get bent or broken," says Kris Smith, marketing manager for Must Have Perennials. "No need to dig too deep and disturb the soil."

Varieties

Hellebore varieties are abundant, offering a range of colors to choose from. Below are a few that experts recommend.

• Ice N' Roses Rosado: This variety has hues of maroon and cream, and blooms early in the season, says McConnell. 
• Ice N' Roses Merlot: This cultivar has dark red blooms with dark green leaves. 
• Wedding Party: A double-flowered variety with several colors, including white, yellow, purple, and black.  

When to Plant

Hellebores are best planted in fall or spring. The geographical region you live in will also determine the best timing. "In mild climates where the ground doesn't freeze, you can plant anytime from fall to spring," says McConnell. If you live in a very cold climate, then wait until spring.

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How to Plant

Purchasing seedlings or potted plants is the easiest way to grow them, says Smith. "If starting from seed, most hellebores don't flower in their first year, so it may also take additional years to determine the quality of the seedling," says Andrew Jager, marketing manager at Walters Gardens.

Dig a hole so the roots have ample space to spread out. "When you plant them, keep the crown—the part where the stems meet the roots—just at or slightly above ground level," says Smith. 

Care Instructions

Caring for hellebores is relatively straightforward, so long as you meet the below requirements.

Water

These hardy plants prefer moist soil, but don't overwater them, as they don't fare well in soggy environments.

If you're not sure if your hellebores need water, try this easy technique: "Stick your finger into the soil about an inch or two down—if it feels dry, go ahead and water," says Smith. During the rainy months, you typically don't need to water as much.  

Soil

Hellebores can grow in different types of soil, though a well-draining one is preferred.

"[They] aren't particularly fussy when it comes to type, and they tend to thrive in average soil conditions," says Jager. However, a soil that contains a lot of clay can be difficult for a hellebore root system, so adding compost or an amendment may be necessary. Sandy soils can dry out quickly, so paying attention to the moisture is key.

Sunlight

Hellebores prefer partial shade. Choose an area in your garden that doesn't receive full sun, such as under a tree or where there is dappled sunlight. "Morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal," says Smith. 

Mulch

Layering mulch around the plant and over the soil helps retain moisture and provides some insulation from the heat or cold.

"Hellebores are pretty tough, but a little protection goes a long way in winter," says Smith. "If you're expecting a really harsh cold snap without snow, it helps to mulch lightly around the base with some leaves or straw."

Pruning

Trimming back spent or old foliage helps spruce up the plant and can contribute to new growth. "The best time to clean up the plants is in early spring when they start to show new growth, removing only dead or decaying foliage," says Jager.

You can also eliminate dead or dying leaves in the fall, but be careful not to cut them all the way back, he adds, as the plant "is actively growing in the cold months."