Hellebore Helleborus niger

Helleborus niger is a winter-blooming evergreen perennial with large, bowl-shaped, white flowers with yellow stamens. They are often called Christmas roses because they bloom around Christmas in warmer regions and in early spring in cooler areas. They are an excellent cut flower and are attractive when set floating in a bowl of water.

The scientific name comes from the Greek words 'helein', meaning injures, and 'bora', meaning food, referring to the toxic properties when the plant is eaten.  The specific name 'niger', meaning black,  refers to the color of the roots.

Quick ID Hints:

• Flowers nodding, petaloid sepals
• Short plant with stiff, large, evergreen leaves 
• Leaves are palmately divided into many leaflets
• Flower center of numerous stamens outlined by tubular nectaries, or fleshy , beaked capsules

Blooms in late winter to very early spring; utilized for borders or patios in protected, shady spots; poisonous leaves and roots- Greek 'helein'= to injure and 'bora'= food; excellent for long, winter blooming display. 

Numerous hybrid selections and species available, often difficult to distinguished, misidentified in trade, and each callen lenten rose, a name historically associated with H. orientalis. 

Prefers partial to full shade; prefers organic-enriched soil; intolerant of bright winter sun and high temperatures; Fungal diseases are main problem.

More information on Helleborus.