THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT HELLEBORUS

Christmas Roses, Snow Roses and Lenten Roses are some of the names used to denote Helleborus species. Common names such Lion's Foot or Oracle Rose indicate that the genus Helleborus has a long history in Europe.

The distribution of the Helleborus genus is limited to the northern hemisphere, including Europe and Asia. Helleborus species are most highly concentrated along the Mediterranean Sea, but also along the coastlines of the Black Sea. Helleborus flowers are a botanical exception. Unlike the blooms of most other flowering plants, hellebore flowers do not consist of the usual petals, but rather of sepals.

The charming blooms in the gloom of winter have fascinated people and inspired many a poet.

All parts of the plant are toxic and not suitable for consumption. Sensitive individuals should always wear gloves when handling the plant.

Planting and care

Christmas Roses, Snow Roses and Lenten Roses all happily grow and thrive well without requiring a great deal of maintenance if planted in the right spot. They do not like being transplanted and want the soil to be left undisturbed.

Plant health

Hellebores are by nature very resilient plants. Nevertheless, they can be affected by a small number of pests and diseases.

Botany

Botanically speaking, Helleborus flowers are very special. Unlike the blooms of most other flowering plants, they do not consist of petals.

Species & distribution

In the course of geological shifts, the predecessors of today's Helleborus probably spread west from Southeast Asia.

Propagation

Helleborus can be propagated by division or seed. Dividing a plant yields fully identical plants.

Songs and poems

Winter flowering Helleborus is not only an ornament in gardens, on balconies and terraces today, it has also often been an inspiration for poets.

Curiosities and legends

The many different common names for Helleborus, such as Christmas Rose, Snow Rose, or Oracle Flower, indicate that the genus has a long mythological tradition.