Hellebore 
Flora Frost Helleborus niger Heavenly
| Flower type | Single |
| Leaf margin | Serrate |
| Winter hardness | Excellent (USDA-zone 1,2,3,4) |
| Flower color | White-white-NN155D |
| Flower diameter | 5 - 5,5 cm |
| Plant height | 10 - 20 cm |
| Flowering month(s) | December; January; February |
| Leaf size | 7,5 - 10 cm |
| soil pH requirement | Alkaline (pH > 7,5); Neutral (pH 6,5 - 7,5); Slightly acidic (pH 4,5 - 6,5) |
| Light conditions | Semi-shades |
| Leaf division | Diversely compound |
| Leaf, main color | Dark green |
| Leaf colour, pattern | Unicolored |
| Flower color distribution | Unicolored |
| Toxicity (if consumed) | Toxic |
| Moisture requirements | Moist; Well-drained |
| Soil type | Humus rich |
The Helleborus niger Heavenly, also known as the Christmas Rose, is a beautiful winter flowering plant that is highly admired for its delicate white flowers. This plant is widely loved by garden enthusiasts for its ability to thrive in harsh winter conditions and provide a burst of color during the gloomy months.
The Christmas Rose is a single-flowered variety, with serrated leaf margins. It is incredibly winter-hardy and can withstand freezing temperatures, making it suitable for USDA zones 1, 2, 3, and 4. This means that it can be grown in regions with extremely cold winters.
The flowers of the Helleborus niger Heavenly are predominantly white, with a slight hint of pale yellow undertones. They have a diameter of about 5 to 5.5 cm, making them a perfect size for adding elegance and charm to any garden. The flowering season starts in December and continues through January and February, providing a lovely contrast against the snowy backdrop of winter.
The plant itself grows to a height of about 10 to 20 cm, making it ideal for border planting or for adding interest to rock gardens. The leaves are dark green in color and can reach a size of 7.5 to 10 cm. They are diversely compound, giving them a unique and textured appearance.
The Helleborus niger Heavenly prefers semi-shaded areas, making it an excellent choice for parts of the garden that receive partial sunlight. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels, including alkaline, neutral, and slightly acidic. This versatility allows it to be grown in various types of soil, as long as it is well-drained.
One important thing to note about this plant is its toxicity if consumed. The Helleborus niger Heavenly is toxic to humans and pets. Therefore, it is essential to handle it with care and keep it away from areas where children or animals may come into contact with it.
In terms of moisture requirements, this plant thrives in moist, well-drained soil. It should be watered regularly to maintain adequate moisture levels, especially during dry spells or when grown in containers.
The Helleborus niger Heavenly is best planted in humus-rich soil. Humus is a type of organic matter that improves soil fertility and structure. By providing enough organic matter, gardeners can ensure that the plant has the necessary nutrients to grow and flourish.
Overall, the Helleborus niger Heavenly is a stunning winter flowering plant that adds beauty and elegance to any garden. Its ability to withstand freezing temperatures and bloom during the coldest months of the year make it a popular choice among garden enthusiasts. However, its toxicity should be taken into consideration, and proper care should be exercised when handling and planting this plant. With the right conditions and care, the Christmas Rose can thrive and bring joy and beauty to any winter landscape.
Market availability index by month:
| Jan. | Feb. | Mar. | Apr. | May | Jun. | Jul. | Aug. | Sep. | Oct. | Nov. | Dec. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 4 | 3 |