In The Garden Now ... The Christmas Rose

Helleborus niger Christmas Rose

Christmas Rose

Text and photos by Victoria Gilleland

The Christmas Rose is blooming just in time for the holiday! This plant is not a member of the rose family, but part of the hellebore clan. Hellebores are perennial plants that thrive in shady northwest gardens. They have either white or cream colored saucer shaped flowers held elegantly on stems up to one foot high. Over time blooms turn a mottled pink. Mature clumps may produce two dozen flowers or more in a season.

There are many other hellebore varieties available that come in an array of flower colors including cream, white, pink, burgundy and purple. Sizes range from a few inches to two feet tall and wide. These plants bring color to the garden in winter and early spring with their attractive flowers and handsome evergreen foliage.

Add a bright spot to your winter garden with your own easy to grow Christmas Rose!

Note: All parts of the hellebore plant are poisonous if eaten, so plant away from children and pet play areas. Explain to your children when they can understand that the hellebore plant is to look at not to eat.

Many holiday plants such as mistletoe, holly and poinsettia can cause gastro intestinal upset if ingested. If you would like more information about plant toxicity check out the Washington Poison Center website or call the office at 1-800-222-1222.

Botanical Name: Helleborus niger

Victoria Gilleland is the owner of Cottage Garden Designs, a Garden Design company specializing in Redesign of Residential Gardens, Garden Consultation and Coaching. She has been designing gardens in the northwest for over 20 years.