Botanical Name: Helleborus orientalis
Grows locally: early-mid March
Commonly known as the hellebore, it is the perfect antidote for the end-of-winter blues and a true testament to resilience through the harshest of circumstances. These perennials tend to emerge during the last stretch of winter and the first breath of spring. Even if tackled by that rogue March snowstorm, they usually pop back up at the first sight of a warm, sunny day. These gals love to grow in clumps, and they are a dream for the novice gardener since they are shade and drought tolerant as well as evergreen, to keep your garden looking lush through the winter months.
Hellebore is a staple in our bouquets and arrangements because the gradient of the petals acts as a perfect transition for most of our wedding color palettes. They come in an array of purples, pinks and burgundys, and we particularly love the way they elegantly drape forward, adding poignant lines to any arrangement. We would describe the hellebore as strong and austere. She commands respect by nature of being so tenacious.
Photos by Becca Olcott
