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Key characteristics

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

Perennials

Helleborus x ballardiae HGC 'Merlin'

Merlin Lenten Rose

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.

Light

Partial shade to full shade

Water

Prefers moist, well-drained soils

Bloom time

Late winter to early spring

Find this plant

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.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)