Blog article by Heather Hamilton, UC Master Gardener-Solano
These are both common names for the amazing Hellebore. It has 22 species of evergreen herbaceous perennials all in the Ranunculaceae family. Originating from Europe and Asia, as well as Turkey and Syria. The genus was established by Carl Linnaeus in 1753.
They are prized for their early winter to spring blooming time and shade tolerance. They have a wide range of colors from grey-black, to purples, pinks, and red as well as white to yellow and green, which have a graceful arching 2-3” blooms, with five overlapping petals that have a variety of rich colors to choose from.
They prefer well-drained soil with lots of organic matter and will do best with division every few years. They do very well under tree-shaded flower beds or in border gardens that make a lush and lovely ground cover for sun-challenged areas. They are mostly frost-resistant but can be susceptible to aphids, leaf minors, and some fungal disease.
The most common varieties are the H. orientalis and the many hybrids available which generally have double flowers and a super long-lasting cut flower attribute that deer and rabbits avoid, making them a great addition to other naturalized areas in the wild landscape.
Don't miss the opportunity to try these shady beauties out if you get the opportunity. In the meantime I will admire these gorgeous flowers from after and dream of my own shade garden…
