Winter-flowering shade perennial with leathery evergreen leaves and nodding flowers.
Hardiness ratings
| System | Rating | Temperature range | How to read it |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA hardiness zone | Zone 4–9 | −34.4 °C to −1.1 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| RHS hardiness rating | H7 | down to −20 °C | Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance |
| Canadian plant hardiness zone | Zone 4–8 | −29 °C to −1 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| Australian (ANBG) zone | Zone 1–5 | −15 °C to 10 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
About Hellebore
Hellebores flower in the depths of winter and early spring, and what appears to be a long-lasting flower is in fact a ring of sepals rather than petals, which is why the display persists for months and gradually turns green rather than dropping. Most are toxic, and the sap can irritate skin. The Lenten rose and the Christmas rose are hellebores rather than roses, named for their flowering season. Older leaves are commonly cut away in late winter, mainly to expose the flowers and to remove foliage carrying leaf spot.
Growing notes
- Cut old leaves in late winter to display the flowers
- Self-seeds readily once established
Pet caution: Hellebore is listed as potentially harmful to cats and/or dogs. Keep pets from grazing on it, and contact a vet if you suspect your animal has eaten some.
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Related plants
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