They don't call these blooms 'Winter Roses' for nothing!
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| Hellebore 'Ivory Prince' |
When the rest of the garden is in its drab, winter dormancy, these angelic lovelies pop their heads up and put on a show.
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| Helleborus x hybridus 'Dark Pink' |
I have been collecting hellebores (aka Winter or Lenten Roses) for a few years now.
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| Helleborus x hybridus 'White spotted' |
A July birthday means that my Sweetness gifts me a hellebore at least once a year!
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| Hellebore 'Ivory Prince' |
I love their demure and gentle tones. Despite their apparent softness, they are resilient and don't mind the shade.
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| Helleborus x hybridus 'White spotted' |
They're not that keen on all the attention though, preferring to hide away under the trees, with heads bowed.
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| Helleborus x hybridus 'Dark Pink' |
Come on girlies, lift those heads up. Stand tall and proud! The plant breeders are definitely selecting for this more forthright, upright trait.
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| Hellebore 'Ivory Prince' |
Sweet hellebores usher in the appearance of the more showy jonquils.
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| Helleborus x hybridus 'Double Picotee' |
And set the stage for the big Spring players - the blossom trees!
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| Prunus campanulata |
Bring on the Spring I say. But without the winter cold, we'd not have known the subtleties of the hellebore!