Hellebore is a beautiful, low-maintenance flower: Here’s how to keep it thriving
The hellebore is one of the most loved and beautiful Christmas flowers. Hellebore care is not as hard as people often think, and it works beautifully in arrangements and as a Christmas gift.
The hellebore (Helleborus niger), also known as the Christmas rose, has been rising in popularity, much to growers’ delight: newer cultivars handle indoor conditions better than older ones. In addition, the flowers are larger and the foliage fuller.
The hellebore is a lovely alternative to more traditional Christmas flowers, and it’s become a favorite among passionate interior decorators. Its delicate, pale flowers suit many styles.
Hellebore care and growing
Watering and fertilizing the hellebore
The hellebore likes soil that’s evenly moist. Excess water can rot the roots and the bases of the stems. Soil moisture level can be hard to estimate because nursery pots are usually filled with dense soil. The safest approach is to water the seedling a couple of times a week and always pour off any excess water from the saucer.
No fertilizer is needed; just keep the soil evenly moist even after blooming.
Planting the hellebore outdoors
Plant it outdoors once the freezing temperatures have passed. The plant can also wait for spring in the basement, for example.
Even a seedling that looks worse for wear is worth planting in the garden, because the vigor of its buds and roots determines whether it will take off. Hellebores thrive in shade beneath shrubs and trees.
Did you know?
The hellebore is poisonous. Make sure pets and children don’t chew or ingest the plant.
