Helleborus orientalis ‘Helen Ballard’s’ is a beautiful collection of Lenten roses, producing large, elegant flowers in a wonderful mixture of colours, from soft blush pink and creamy white to deep plum and burgundy. Some blooms feature delicate veining or striking speckled markings, each with a contrasting centre of pale golden stamens.
 
These hardy perennials bring welcome colour to the garden in late winter and early spring, when little else is flowering. Growing to approximately 30–45cm, they thrive in partial shade and are perfect for woodland gardens, shaded borders and naturalistic planting schemes. Their long-lasting flowers are also a valuable early source of food for pollinators.
 
When to Sow: Sep - Oct & Feb - Apr 
 
HOW TO SOW: Sow seeds promptly into moist, free-draining seed compost, covering lightly with compost or fine grit. Keep pots in a sheltered outdoor position or cold frame, ensuring the compost remains consistently moist. Fresh seeds generally benefit from a period of summer warmth followed by winter cold to break dormancy. Germination is often slow and irregular, typically occurring the following spring, although some seeds may take longer. Do not apply artificial heat or allow the compost to dry out. Keep seed trays for at least two growing seasons before discarding. Pot on seedlings once large enough to handle and grow on in partial shade.
 
Classification: Hardy evergreen perennial
Expert Level: Some experience required
Germination Time: Usually the following spring; sometimes longer
Flowering Time: Feb–Apr
Site: Partial shade
Soil Type: Fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil
Soil Acidity: Neutral to alkaline
Moisture: Moisture-retentive but well-drained
 
Care: Mulch annually with organic matter, avoid waterlogging and remove spent flowering stems when appropriate
Use: Woodland gardens, shaded borders, winter interest, pollinator planting
 
Days to Maturity: Usually 2–3 years 
Height: 60–75cm
Plant Spacing: 45cm