• Helleborus niger
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Helleborus niger

Christmas Rose

£8.99
£8.99
Helleborus niger, commonly known as the Christmas Rose, is a stunning, evergreen perennial that produces pure white flowers in midwinter, bringing brightness to shaded gardens.
  • One of the earliest flowering perennials
  • Evergreen foliage for year-round interest
  • Pollinator-friendly, supporting early bees
Size

    • Aspect

      Partial to dappled shade

    • Hardiness

      Very hardy

    • Flowers

      December, January, February

    • Soil type

      Moist but well-drained, Loamy, Chalky

    Helleborus niger

    • Why we like this plant

      Helleborus niger is an exceptional choice for winter gardens, offering pristine white flowers during the darkest months. Its evergreen foliage and ability to thrive in shade make it a fantastic addition to woodland borders and underplanting schemes.

    • About this plant

      Helleborus niger is one of the most cherished winter-flowering perennials, prized for its large, outward-facing white flowers with golden-yellow stamens. Blooming from late autumn through winter into early spring, it provides much-needed colour when little else is in flower. The leathery, dark green foliage is evergreen, offering year-round interest. This low-maintenance plant is perfect for shady borders, woodland gardens, and container displays, thriving in humus-rich, well-drained soil. It is also an excellent early source of nectar for pollinators, making it a valuable addition to wildlife-friendly gardens.

    • Key features

      • Pure white, outward-facing flowers with golden stamens
      • Blooms from late autumn to early spring
      • Evergreen, deep green leathery foliage
      • Thrives in shade and under trees
      • Provides early nectar for pollinators

    • Height and
      spread

    • Growth
      habit

      Low-growing, clump-forming

    • Moisture

      Moderate moisture; prefers well-drained conditions

    • Position in
      the Garden

      Shaded borders, woodland gardens, under trees, containers

    Planting guide

    • Plant in well-drained, humus-rich soil
    • Position in partial to full shade for best results
    • Space plants around 30-45cm apart to allow for spreading
    • Best planted in autumn or early spring

    Care tips

    • Remove old or damaged leaves in late winter to highlight new growth
    • Water regularly during dry spells, ensuring good drainage
    • Apply a mulch of compost or leaf mould in autumn
    • Divide mature clumps in early spring if necessary
    • Handle with gloves, as sap may cause skin irritation

    Winter care

    • Fully hardy and withstands frost
    • Mulch lightly in autumn to enrich the soil and protect roots
    • Cut back any damaged foliage in late winter