How to Grow Hellebores

Hellebores are rhizomatous, herbaceous or semi-evergreen perennials that are an iconic and sought-after plant for a winter garden. Large yet delicate bowl-shaped flowers are produced in an array of colours, sat atop dark slender stems and clump forming basal foliage. Hellebores flower from late-winter to early spring when little else blooms, making the perfect addition to flower beds, borders or as cut flowers within the home. You should expect to see Hellebores grow to an approximate height and spread of between 10-50cm (4-20”) Please take care when handling Hellebores, as they can cause skin irritation.

Hellebores are best planted in moist, well-drained soil of clay, loam and chalk within an alkaline or neutral PH balance. They are perfectly suited to a woodland garden and look great when planted in clumps, dotted between winter or spring flowering bulbs such as narcissus (daffodils). Water well when planted and during dry spells or mulch with leaf mould to help retain water and increase soil fertility.

Apply a liberal amount of general-purpose fertiliser during spring for best results. Container grown plants can suffer because of leaching so a balanced liquid fertiliser will help protect the flowers. Old foliage can be removed during late winter or early spring just as the flower buds develop. Remove spent flower heads after flowering to encourage a second flush of blooms and to promote healthy growth for the following season.

Hybrid Hellebores can be propagated by division. During spring, lift large plants and split the clump into smaller sections with at least one growing point per plant. Alternatively, some varieties can be propagated by seed.