Lenten Rose

Characteristics & Cultural Requirements

• Height/Spread: 18 to 24 inches tall by 24 to 30 inches wide
• Habit/Form: Round, clump forming
• Hardiness Zone: 5-9
• Exposure: Partly sunny to shaded area
• Soil: Rich, well drained

Ornamental Value/Landscape Use

Lenten roses, also known as hellebore hybrids, offer color and beauty to an early spring landscape. A semievergreen perennial, the Lenten rose has a dark green glossy foliage which is divided into segments—usually between seven and nine—forming an umbrella shape. The large bell-shaped hybrids emerge between April and June and bloom nicely alongside spring daffodils and tulips.

Hellebore hybrids come in a variety of colors including white, yellow, green, pink, and dark red. They are native to Europe and Asia and grow among woodland and forest edges. They thrive in rich, humus soil, but will also grow in rocky soil. Although they can withstand some drought once they’ve matured, they do not like excessive moisture, so proper drainage is important. Low-maintenance plants, Lenten roses make ideal specimens or may be used as ground cover. Deer and rabbits avoid them.