At a time when many plants enter a period of dormancy, Hellebores can give your winter garden a welcomed lift.  One species that we are particularly partial to is the Helleborus x ballardiae, commonly known as Cinnamon Snow.

Hellebores are evergreen perennials producing their flowers in winter and early spring.  The cinnamon snow bears predominantly white flowers contrasted by pinkie-brown stems that appear to bleed into the veins of its petals.

Growing Conditions:

Hellebores do well when positioned in dappled shade or partial sun.  They grow best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.  Avoid positioning them in areas prone to water logging.

 

Care & Maintenance:

Once established, Hellebores are easy care.  Apply a thick layer of organic mulch once per year and avoid moving them.  You may wish to cut back some foliage as new blooms emerge.

In a garden:

Hellebores make great low-lying border plants and are often placed under trees (as shown above) where they find protection from the summer sun.   They can also be grown in pots and are gorgeous as cut flowers floating in water.