Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Helleborus x hybridus 'Painted Doubles'
Painted Doubles Lenten Rose

- 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.
