Lenten roses

Despite names such as winter rose, Christmas rose and Lenten rose, hellebores are not closely related to the rose family at all.

Without question, the most popular hellebores for garden use are forms of H. orientalis (pictured). It has spawned many colourful hybrids (H. x hybridus) which, in the Northern Hemisphere, flower in early spring, around the period of Lent – hence their common name of Lenten roses. They are excellent for bringing early colour to a shady mixed or herbaceous border, and they are perfect for planting under trees and between deciduous shrubs.