1 / 3

Key characteristics

Family: Ranunculaceae
Height: 12 to 18 in
Width: 18 to 24 in
Flower color: White to pale pink petals edged with magenta to deep pink/red margins (picotee)
Foliage color: Evergreen, leathery, dark green leaves (semi-evergreen in colder climates)
Bloom time: Late winter through early spring
Light: Part shade to light shade
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low;, remove old or tattered foliage in late winter before new growth and flowers emerge
Growing zone: USDA zones 5 to 9
Wildlife: Early-season flowers provide nectar and pollen for winter/early-spring pollinators

Perennials

Helleborus x hybridus 'Fire and Ice'

Fire and Ice Lenten Rose

Helleborus × hybridus 'Fire and Ice' is an evergreen perennial that forms a low clump of leathery, dark green foliage from which nodding, double-flowered blooms emerge in late winter. The large flowers feature snow-white petals edged with a dramatic ring of rose-red, giving each bloom a softly glowing border with a pale center. Blossoms typically open between December and March, often extending into early spring, offering garden color when little else is in flower.

Light

Part shade to light shade

Water

Moderate

Bloom time

Late winter through early spring

Find this plant

Works well in

Borders
Shade Gardens
Woodland Gardens
Pollinator Gardens
Containers

Companion plants

Epimediums · Hostas · Bleeding hearts · Solomon's seal · Ferns · Lungworts

Design tip

Flowers in the quietest months make this worth a sheltered spot within sight of a window or door. Cooler light suits it, so tuck it on the north side of a shrub or wall where the soil stays even.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)