Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Helleborus x ballardiae HGC 'Merlin'
Merlin Lenten Rose

- 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.
