Hellebores

by Cherie Luke Hellebores, (helleborus spp.) is a long lived perennial in the buttercup, Ranunclaceae, family. About 20 species belong to this genus.  Hellebores have leathery, usually dark green leaves, divided into lobes on leaflets that are often toothed. The flowers come in a wide range of colors including black, yellow, cream, purple, green, red, and rose. The flowers are not true petals, but petal-like sepals. Hellebore Leaves Plant hellebores in light to full shade with rich evenly moist, well drained soil. They are mildly drought tolerant once established. A sheltered area protected from winter winds will help keep evergreen foliage looking best. You should remove any dead foliage around January if not covered in snow. Hellebores are deep rooted and do well when planted in deeply dug holes with a yearly top dressing of compost, being careful not to bury the crown.  They do not need regular dividing for the health of the plant but if you want to divide or move one it is best to