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Northwest Blooms · Perennials

Helleborus x hybridus 'Painted Doubles'

Painted Doubles Lenten Rose

Helleborus x hybridus 'Painted Doubles'
Family
Ranunculaceae
Height
12 to 15 inches
Width
24 inches
Flower color
Double white with burgundy-red spots
Foliage color
Evergreen, dark green
Bloom time
Late winter to early spring
Light
Partial shade to full shade
Water
Moist, well-drained soil
Maintenance
Low; remove old foliage in late winter
Growing zone
USDA zones 5 to 8
Wildlife
Attracts bees; deer resistant

About this plant

Helleborus × hybridus 'Painted Doubles' is a cultivar within the Winter Jewels series, developed by renowned breeders Ernie and Marietta O'Byrne in Oregon. This variety has fully double, white to cream-colored flowers adorned with prominent red to burgundy spotting. The blooms emerge in late winter to early spring, offering an elegant display during a time when few other plants are in flower.

A distinguishing feature of 'Painted Doubles' is its unique coloration and patterning, which sets it apart from other hellebores. The heavy red spotting towards the center of each petal gives the appearance of intricate brush strokes, making each bloom a unique masterpiece. This cultivar is deer-resistant and drought-tolerant once established, making it a resilient choice for shaded garden areas.

Works well in

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

Companion plants

Ferns · Lungworts · Wild ginger · Japanese forest grass · Astilbes · Heucheras

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.