Helleborus is a genus of perennial plants in the Ranunculaceae family, native to Europe and parts of Western Asia. Hellebores are especially valued for their flowers from midwinter into early spring, bringing colour to the garden when few other perennials are in bloom.
Flowers range from white and green to pink, red, purple and almost black. Depending on the species or cultivar, they can be single, semi-double or double, sometimes with distinctive markings, veining or contrasting stamens. The foliage is often evergreen or long-lasting and provides structure in the garden even outside the flowering season.
Most Helleborus species grow best in humus-rich, well-drained soil, preferably in partial or light shade. Once established, they are strong, long-lived plants that require little maintenance. Avoid prolonged wet conditions in winter and excessive drying out during summer.
At coolplants you will find Helleborus niger, Helleborus × hybridus and a range of other unusual species and selections. They vary considerably in flower colour, flowering period, foliage, vigour and preferred growing conditions, making it possible to find a suitable Helleborus for many different garden situations.
Good to know: the main sales season for Helleborus at coolplants runs from 1 November through March. During this period, our range is at its widest.
With Helleborus × hybridus, remove the old leaves when the flower stems are clearly emerging, usually in winter or early spring. This shows the flowers better and also removes old foliage on which leaf-spot diseases can overwinter. With species valued for their persistent foliage, it is better to remove only damaged or diseased leaves.
The cause is often not the age of the plant but the growing conditions. Deep shade, competition from tree roots, compacted soil or a site that stays too wet in winter can all reduce flowering. Helleborus grows best in humus-rich, well-drained soil that stays sufficiently moist in spring but does not remain waterlogged in winter.
Yes, but not every species tolerates sun equally well. Many Helleborus × hybridus grow very well in light partial shade and also tolerate morning or evening sun. Strong midday sun on dry soil is more likely to cause leaf damage and stress. Species from more open, drier habitats generally tolerate more sun than typical woodland or woodland-edge species.
This is normal. Most Helleborus × hybridus are genetically very variable and cross readily with nearby plants. Seedlings can therefore differ greatly in flower colour, markings, flower shape and vigour. Only vegetative propagation produces plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant.
Helleborus prefers to be left undisturbed. If moving is necessary, do it preferably in early autumn or shortly after flowering, while the soil still has enough moisture. Dig up a generous root ball and keep as many roots intact as possible. Older plants may need one or two seasons after transplanting before they flower strongly again.
