Hellebore
Fall Planning for Favorite Spring Flowers
Hellebore flowers have been in gardens and folklore for centuries. They are toxic and were used by the ancient Greeks as poison. Hellebore’s toxic nature and ability to bloom in late-winter despite frozen soil and snow, has given Hellebore flowers a place in witchcraft and fable. It was the Victorians who saw this resilient flower as a sign of hope and coined the name Lenten Rose for this wild rose-looking flower that blooms in the weeks leading up to Easter.
Hellebore are buttercups, not roses and their color range is white, pale green, pink, purple to deep purple almost black. Hellebore first caught my eye at The Met Cloisters in upper Manhattan.
The Cloisters is a museum located in Fort Tryon Park in Manhattan. The museum consists of four antique structures - all French cloisters - brought to New York City by collector, George Grey Barnard. The museum houses an exquisite collection of medieval art. Additionally, it sit atop 4 acres of befitting gardens; some overlooking the Hudson River. The museum and gardens are a New York City must see every season.
When to plant
Hellebore are another woodland plant and they like cold weather. In fact, Hellebore plants and seeds need a 60 day cold period to get their roots established. Therefore, fall is the best time to plant and when in fall, depends upon where you live. Keep in mind, Hellebore need around 2 months to become established before the ground is frozen.
Hellebore are northern dwellers and cannot grow in zones 8 and further south.
Where to plant
Hellebore need a shady spot with filtered light. Woodland plants and flowers are great in city gardens where buildings and trees block direct light.
Pots and smaller planters are not recommend simply because they keep too much heat during summer months and Hellebore are long-lasting perennials that can’t stand it hot.
Lastly, Hellebore’s buttercup-shape flowers tend to face down. Raised flower beds or hillsides allow us to see their truly beautiful faces.
How to plant
Hellebore seeds can take 3 or more years to bloom. Seeds are always less expensive and growing from seed tends to produce a stronger plant. Hellebore are a truly long-lasting perennial that will be around for several years once they are established. If you have the patience, seeds are the way to go. For the rest of us, plants will do.
Hellebore do spread - slowly. Plant seeds or plants 2 inches apart and 1 inch deep. Soil should be rich with good drainage. Hellebore love a compost layer in spring.
