Hellebores are early-blooming perennials that flower in early spring, often providing the first nectar for pollinators. University of Vermont Extension notes the flowers last over four weeks, in green, white, pink, peach and purple. Mature clumps reach about 24 inches tall and 30 inches wide, and plants are hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9. All parts of the plant are poisonous and the sap can irritate skin, so keep children and pets away.
Hellebore at a glance
| Type | Flower |
|---|---|
| Season | Perennial |
| Sun | Partial shade |
| Plant spacing | 30 in |
| Row spacing | 30 in |
| Per square foot | 1 |
| Seed depth | At surface |
| Days to maturity | Blooms in early spring for 4+ weeks |
| How to start | Plant in spring or fall and avoid summer heat. |
| Water | 1 in per week |
These are the same numbers our plant spacing, square foot and harvest date calculators use. See every crop in the plant database.
When to plant hellebore
Plant in spring or fall and avoid summer heat. Check your growing zone and frost dates.
How to plant hellebore
- Choose partial shade to partial sun. Full shade produces fewer flowers, and full direct sun is best avoided.
- Enrich the soil. Use soil rich in organic matter with good drainage; add compost at planting and mulch afterward. UVM recommends a soil test and notes a pH of about 7.0 to 8.0.
- Allow room for a clump about 30 inches wide; use the plant spacing calculator.
- Wear gloves and long sleeves when handling.
Caring for hellebore
Trim winter-damaged foliage in early spring, and remove last year’s leaves once new growth appears, about two months after flower buds emerge. See the garden watering calculator for watering. Divide large clumps in spring after flowering or in fall, with at least three growth buds per section.
Companion plants
| Grow nearby | Spring bulbs, ferns and hostas in shade |
|---|---|
| Keep apart | Full sun and poorly drained spots |
Hellebores are considered deer- and rabbit-resistant. Check other pairings with the companion plant finder.
Common problems
| Problem | What you see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Poisonous plant | Skin irritation from sap; poisonous if eaten | All parts are poisonous. Wear gloves and long sleeves and keep children and pets away. See also the pet-safe plants guide. |
| Few flowers | Lots of leaves, few blooms | Full shade produces fewer flowers. Move to partial shade to partial sun. |
| Yellow leaves | Leaves yellowing | Check drainage and watering with the yellow leaf identifier. |
Not sure what you are looking at? The plant problem identifier ranks likely causes from the symptoms you see.
When and how to harvest
Hellebores are grown for their flowers and early-season interest. They should not be eaten, and the sap can irritate skin.
Plan your hellebore
- Plant spacing calculator: how many plants fit your bed
- Planting calendar: sowing and transplant dates for your frost dates
- Frost dates by ZIP code: your last spring and first fall frost
- Harvest date calculator: when your crop will be ready
Frequently asked questions
How far apart should I plant hellebores?
Space hellebores 30 inches apart in rows 30 inches apart. In a square foot garden, plant 1 per square foot.
How deep do I plant hellebore plants?
Plant hellebores in rich, well-drained soil with compost, in spring or fall.
How long do hellebores take to grow?
Hellebores bloom in early spring and the flowers last over four weeks.
How much water do hellebores need?
About 1 inch of water a week, from rain and watering combined. Plant in well-drained soil and water as new plants establish.
Are hellebores poisonous?
Yes. All parts are poisonous and the sap can irritate skin, so wear gloves and keep children and pets away.
Are hellebores deer resistant?
UVM Extension considers them deer- and rabbit-resistant.
When should I trim hellebore leaves?
Trim winter-damaged foliage in early spring and remove last year’s leaves once new growth appears.