Hellebores are a wonderful winter flowering shade plant. Things to look for in a Hellebore are the subtle shades and tones of the flower, the number of petals, and how much the flower nods.
Hellebores come in shades from pure white to deep purple. Between these two extreme colours are flowers in shades of pink, and/or with green, yellow and pink tinges.
If the flower nods fully, so it faces the ground, the flower will not be fully appreciated unless it is planted in an elevated spot, like on a terrace above a retaining wall. If you are to plant Hellebores at foot level, why not choose a variety with flowers that point up?
Hellebores bloom in winter, but their palmate leaves are usually evergreen in Vancouver. Sometimes the leaves have contrasting vein colours, making them an interesting addition to the summer shade garden.
Not only do Hellebores bloom in the shade, but they also like growing in root bound soil under large trees.
Phoenix Perennials in Richmond has the largest selection of Hellebores in Metro Vancouver. Here is a link to their Hellebore catalogue:
The catalogue also has a botany lesson on Hellebores, and directions to Phoenix Perennials.
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