Lenten Rose (Helleborus orientalis)
by CMG Kathleen S.
Lenten roses (Helleborus orientalis) are a very old garden flower known as helleborus and are members of the Ranunculaceae family. Hippocrates mentions using this species in his work “On Airs, Waters and Places” in 400 BCE. Their history can be traced back through medieval times (1400’s) with connections to the belief in witches and the use of herbal medicines as treatments for various ailments.
Actually, Lenten roses are highly poisonous and are not for human or pet consumption. The Greeks used helleborus to poison the water supply of the city of Kirrha in 585 BCE. The name helleborus provides a poison warning in its name. It is derived from the Greek words “helein” which means to injure and “bora” which means food.
The growing season of Helleborus or Lenten roses coincides with the Christian observance of Lent and hence the name. They are a bright spot in the dark and bleak days of winter with blooms appearing in Comal County in January and February. Their colors display an amazing variety, from an almost black and deep purple to red, green, pink, yellow and white.
“Black Diamond” Lenten Rose from DenGarden.com
Making excellent cut flowers, Lenten roses, require special treatment to last in a vase. Cut an inch off the bottom of the stems, hold the stems over an open flame or place in boiling water – just for a few seconds. This is necessary to keep air bubbles from developing in the stems. The air bubbles will keep water from being drawn into the cut flower.
Lenten roses are hardy in zones 4 to 9. They prefer partial to full shade in the summer but they do require indirect sunlight during the winter months to bloom. Consider planting them on the east side of the house or structure to protect them from the hot afternoon sun. During the winter months, they will need to be protected from the cold winds and from freezing temperatures. Be sure to mulch before winter.
Helleborus Winter Jewels “Rose Quartz” from FarmHouseHome.com
These perennials are semi-evergreen and maintain attractive foliage throughout the winter months. The foliage is described as leather like with leaflets grouped much like the spokes on a bicycle rim. A mature plant will form tight clumps around 18″ tall and 2 to 3 feet wide.
“French Kiss” Lenten Rose from ProvenWinners.com
Lenten roses must have soil that is well drained; they do not thrive in wet conditions. Alkaline soil is a preference but supplemented with organic matter. Fertilize in the fall with an organic fertilizer such as Happy Frog Organic Fertilizer for fruit and flowering plants or use your home compost. Mature plants of at least 3 years of age can be divided but may not bloom the following year.
Lenten roses can be grown in containers at least 12″X12″. They have extensive root systems and are at risk for being root bound. The pots should be well drained and the use of pot feet is a good idea. If left outside during the winter months additional cold weather protection is necessary (i.e. fabric or tarp covers or a cold frame). You may need to wear gloves when handling Lenten roses to prevent skin irritations.
Lenten Roses from DenGarden.com
Late spring is the best time to harvest seeds. They must be sown immediately. Make sure to press the seeds into the soil but do not cover. Lenten rose seeds need sunlight to germinate. Keep the area moist. If you do not cut off the dead blooms, Lenten roses will self-seed, eventually making a beautiful groundcover.
Companion plants include hostas, ferns and impatiens. There are many varieties of Lenten roses to choose from as you plan for the upcoming garden season. Go online to find sources for beautiful flowing plants.
References: Gardenerspath.com; petairepublic.com; florgeous.com; backbonevalleynursery.com; aggie-hort.tamu.edu; thespruce.com