In the Spotlight . . . our Plant of the Month

Hellebores (Helleborus xhybridus)

Luckily, we had a Hellebore reside in one of Woodbridge's greenhouses this winter to remind us about how much we love them. Last month, in the sun-warmed greenhouse, clusters of pale pink flowers rose above the evergreen leaves. Outdoors, these normally late-winter bloomers show color in their buds about the time their new leaves unfurl. Commonly known as Lenten Rose, these members of the buttercup family are captivating perennials with so many attributes, it's hard to know where to start.

While naturally a sun-loving plant, versatile Hellebores are ideal for your woodland or shade garden and can even thrive in very shady gardens and near black walnut trees.

You will treasure these "deer resistant" plants year-round as their evergreen clumps become the focus of your winter garden. Hellebores are drought and neglect tolerant, as long as they have decent drainage and don't get too much moisture.

As you bend close to clean out dried leaves, peak under the hood of Hellebore's shy cup-shaped flowers for a rewarding view of their bonny blooms. Available in a range of colors, you can choose from exquisite shades of pink, red, yellow, green, purple, white, and even slate black. Their petals range from single, anemone-like blooms to frilly doubles. Enjoy their blooms inside by floating flowers in a shallow bowl to create a gorgeous centerpiece for your home.

Plant some Hellebores in your garden to enjoy early-spring color from their long-lasting blooms, and you'll also have their evergreen foliage to enjoy in your winter garden.