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Northwest Blooms · Perennials

Helleborus x ballardiae HGC 'Merlin'

Merlin Lenten Rose

Helleborus x ballardiae HGC 'Merlin'
Family
Ranunculaceae
Height
12 to 18 inches
Width
24 inches
Flower color
Cream to pale pink, maturing to rich, dark, dusky pink
Foliage color
Dark green, marbled
Bloom time
Late winter to early spring
Light
Partial shade to full shade
Water
Prefers moist, well-drained soils
Maintenance
Low; minimal pruning after flowering
Growing zone
USDA zones 5 to 9
Wildlife
Attracts pollinators

About this plant

Helleborus × ballardiae HGC 'Merlin' is an evergreen perennial that blooms from late winter into early spring, typically between January and March. Originating from a hybrid cross, this cultivar showcases clusters of outward-facing, saucer-shaped flowers that begin as cream to pale pink and deepen to rich, dusky pink as they mature. The blooms are complemented by dark green, marbled foliage, adding visual interest even when the plant is not in flower.

'Merlin' is adaptable to various garden settings, including shady borders, woodland gardens, and containers. Its compact, bushy growth habit and long-lasting blooms make it a valuable addition to winter and early spring landscapes. Additionally, 'Merlin' is deer-resistant and can serve as an excellent cut flower, with its stems benefiting from searing for 10 seconds to enhance vase life.

Works well in

Borders · Shade Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Rain Gardens

Companion plants

Astilbes · Heucheras · Siberian bugloss · Sweet woodruff · Foamflowers · Epimediums

Design tip

Winter interest is the reason to grow it, so keep it near an entry where the bloom is noticed. Keep it out of hot afternoon sun and layer it with woodland companions for a full, settled look.