These splendid evergreen plants, also known as Winter Rose, Christmas Rose or Lenten Rose boast gracefully arching 2- to 3-inch blooms, each with five gently overlapping petals that come in a variety of rich colours.

Lenten Rose plants bloom in late winter to early spring, and their blossoms last an amazing six to eight weeks. Deep green, shiny foliage of the helleborus retains its colour and form through all four seasons. Because of their easy-going light requirements, hellebores are wonderfully suited to tree-shaded flower beds and patios. They’re perfect as border plants and make a lush, lovely ground cover in large sun-challenged areas.

Their resistance to deer, rabbits and other pests makes them ideal for farmhouse or cabin landscaping, and they look spectacular when paired with other flowers in naturalised areas. Helleborus plants thrive in zones 4 through 9, in full shade to partial shade. These hardy plants are self-propagating; seedlings will appear the year after planting. Easy to start and even easier to maintain, these are a great choice for busy or casual gardeners.