Helleborus X Hybridus 'Harvington Shades Of The Night' (Lenten Rose Hellebore) - Helleborus X Hybridus Harvington Shades Of The Night

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Position: partial shade Soil: neutral to alkaline soil, including heavy soil Rate of growth: average Flowering period: February to April Other features: all parts of the plant cause severe discomfort if ingested; the sap may cause skin irritation; dark greyish-green leaves give off an unpleasant odour when crushed Hardiness: fully hardy A stunning variety with large, saucer-shaped flowers from dark purple to almost blue-black from late winter to early spring.

The handsome evergreen f oliage is leathery, deeply cut and dark green. This lenten rose is grown from s eed, so colour variations may occur. It is best planted in groups at the front of a partially shady mixed border, or near the house, among narcissi or snowdro ps, that will set off the dark tones of the flowers. In former times, hellebor es were planted close to cottage doors to prevent evil spirits from crossing the threshold. Garden care: A top tip from the Crocus crew is to cut back the old le aves down to the ground in January or February. This will show off the emerging flowers to best effect and it also helps to get rid of foliar diseases such as hellebore leaf spot. Add lots of well-rotted leaf mould or organic matter to t he planting hole. Apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3 in) mulch of well-rotted organic matter around the base of the plant in autumn and provide a top-dressing of gen eral fertiliser each spring.

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