Tis the season for Lenten roses, or hellebores. This evergreen, flowering perennial is one of the earliest bloomers, coming alive in late winter. They bloom from late November until May, depending location, species or hybrid. Their leathery leaves provide ground cover year-round. White is the most dominant color in the Greensboro area, but they come in a variety of colors. We have friends who take great pleasure in seeing how many varieties they can grow: Striped, yellow, the deep purple, almost black, spotted, some that have a slightly metallic highlights, and double flowers. We get ours from friends when they are thinning their herd. Also, locally, Gethsemane Gardens and Nursery specializes in them. If you want them to proliferate in your yard, remember most hybrids are sterile.
Hellebores like organically rich soil and grow well under trees. They don't seem to be of interest to deer and rabbits, which is a big consideration in many parts of Guilford County. While they are beautiful, they are toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. They are called Lenten roses because the often grow during the Lenten season. Lent this year is from Wednesday, March 5th to Thursday, April 17th. So, the above crop, thriving in our yard, is right on time. As you are out and about, or on your way to church today, see how many clumps of hellebores there are along the way.
Happy 1st Sunday in March!
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