The Early Bloomer
If you’ve ever wished for flowers while winter is just starting to loosen its grip, Helleborus Orientalis, the Lenten Rose, might be your perfect match. Lenten Roses are known to bloom in March or early April in Michigan’s zone 5 gardens, bringing soft shades of plum, cream, and pink when little else is stirring. That’s why these hardy perennials are this week’s Plant of the Week.
Cherished for centuries—even grown in medieval monastery gardens—Lenten Roses are known for their quiet beauty and remarkable resilience. Despite the name, they’re not even roses, but members of the buttercup family, known for thriving in tough conditions with almost effortless grace.
In Hardiness Zone 5, the best time to plant hellebores is in right now—in the early spring—or in the fall. Early spring planting provides the best chance for strong growth. Although you can plant hellebores at other times, it is best to avoid the hottest and driest summer months.
Once you plant them, Lenten roses mostly take care of themselves. They thrive in shady spots—especially under trees—bloom early, and don’t need much attention. Their blooms last for weeks, slowly fading into soft, papery textures that still look beautiful. Even better? They’re deer-resistant, don’t mind dry spells once established, and often self-seed, giving you more plants over time without the fuss.
Shop Our Colorful Varieties of Lenten Roses
Among the many perennials at Knapp Valley Gardens are the following Hellebore varieties: Ivory Prince, Paris in Pink, Pink Frost, and Rome in Red. Stop in and pick some up this week to quickly add a spring touch of color to your garden beds. Note: while frost-hardy, extreme weather can affect the blooms. Cover plants with horticultural fleece or an old sheet during heavy frost or freezing rain. After, remove damaged blooms to encourage fresh growth.
