Color:

Hellebore

Helleborus orientalis

Perennial

Buttercup Family

Lenten rose with elegant nodding blooms. Winter to early spring bloomer. Subtle colors and patterns. Also called Christmas rose. Long-lasting garden plant but challenging as cut flower.

Bloom Season

Winter, Spring

Habitat

Temperate

Where to Buy

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Perfect For

WeddingSympathy

Care & Vase Life

Stays fresh for 7 to 14 days

when properly cared for

Cut when flowers are mature and seedpods beginning to form

Sear stem ends or submerge entire stem in warm water

Float in a shallow bowl if stems wilt

Keep in cool conditions away from heat

Sear stem ends immediately after cutting

Submerge entire flower in water for hours before arranging

Change water daily

Keep cold

Fragrance Profile

No Scent

Most hellebores have no fragrance

Safety Information

Toxic to Cats

Toxic to Dogs

Toxic to Humans

Contains cardiac glycosides and saponins - all parts are toxic if ingested

Fun Facts

Called the Christmas Rose because it blooms in winter

The flowers are actually sepals, not petals, which is why they last so long

Ancient Greeks used hellebore to treat insanity

One of the few flowers that blooms in the dead of winter

Origin & History

Native to Europe and Western Asia

Hellebores have been grown for over 2,000 years, first as medicinal plants by the ancient Greeks. The Christmas Rose was cultivated in medieval monastery gardens. Modern hybridization has produced spectacular varieties, making hellebores a favorite for winter gardens and arrangements.