Each flower and tree is interesting to see ~ watch closely as each unfolds.
 

Helleborous 'Red Hybrids' (Lenten Rose)
Flowers are shades of red, dark pink or purple, and appear from December till April. Evergreen. Lenten rose difficult for me to grow. I planted a new variety this year - will see how it does. Slow growing that I have seen. 2006 - I have not been successful with Helleborous in my soil.

CULTIVATION: Tolerates a range of moist fertile, humus rich soils, but have varying "ideal" cultivation requirements. Incorporate leaf mold or organic matter at planting, and mulch annually in autumn, especially H. argutifolius and H. orientalis. For all groups, avoid dry or waterlogged soils, and provide shelter from strong, cold winds.
PROPAGATION: Sow seed in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe; named cultivars do not come true from seed. Divide all species and named cultivars after flowering, in early spring or late summer. H. foetidus and H. argutifolius are best raised from seed, since they are not suitable for division.
PESTS AND DISEASES: Susceptible to slugs, snails, aphids, leaf spot, and black rot.

H. 'Red Hybrids'

Zone: 2 - 9    -    H 9 - 6	Part Shade
Height: 20 inches	Width: 18 - 24 inches
Bloom Time: Foliage	Bloom Color: Foliage
Location: Butterfly garden.	Planted: 31 May 2004