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Helleborus niger

Christmas rose

Common names: Snow rose

Christmas rose

This description was machine-translated.

Description

The Christmas rose (*Helleborus niger*) is one of the few perennials that blooms in the middle of winter, from December to February. Its flowers are white, often with a faint pink tinge, and can even open through a thin layer of snow. It grows into a dense, evergreen mound over several years in shaded to semi‑shaded spots under trees or shrubs.

Care instructions

Plant in a humus‑rich, well‑drained spot in the shade of trees or shrubs, preferably in autumn so it can establish before the first frost. Water moderately; avoid both waterlogging and complete summer drought. A loose mulch of leaf litter or compost keeps the root zone moist and protects the plant in winter. Remove faded flower stems and old, spotted leaves in early spring to make room for new growth. Once established, the plant requires little care and will reward you with blooms while the rest of the garden lies dormant.

Soil & site

Soil pH

4.0pH 6.5–7.88.0

Soil type

well-drained, humus-rich, lime-loving, moist

LightShade
HardinessHardy

Feeding

Medium feeder

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