06/08/2026
One of the true stars of the winter garden is the hellebore.
A hardy perennial that thrives in cooler climates, hellebores offer year-round appeal with their large, deeply divided, leathery green foliage. But it is in the depths of winter that they truly shine, producing an incredible display of flowers when colour can be hard to find elsewhere in the garden.
Available in an extraordinary range of colours including white, soft pink, burgundy, mauve and almost black, there is a hellebore to suit every garden. Flowers may be single or double, with many varieties featuring beautifully flecked, scalloped or delicately fringed petals that are impossible to walk past without stopping to admire.
Growing to around 50cm tall, hellebores are perfect for planting beneath deciduous trees or larger shrubs, where they create a stunning display through the cooler months. In cooler regions they establish readily and will often self-seed, gradually forming beautiful drifts. In warmer climates, choose a sheltered position with morning sun and afternoon shade. Don't be concerned if the foliage dies back during the hottest months - this is a natural part of the plant's growth cycle.
For the best start, prepare the soil well by incorporating Rapid Raiser throughout the planting hole. After planting, apply a light dressing of Rapid Raiser around the base and water in with GOGO Juice to encourage strong root development. Finish with a generous layer of Whoflungdung mulch to help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature and feed the soil as it breaks down.
The beautiful hellebores featured in these photographs from Valley Road Nursery Highton some time ago, are a wonderful reminder of just how spectacular these winter-flowering favourites can be.
