WSU Clark County Extension
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Lenten Rose

Scientific name: Helleborus orientalis
Taxonomy
Family:Ranunculaceae
Type:Herbaceous perennials
Native:NO
Plant Requirements
Zone:4 to 9
Sun:Partial shade to full shade
Moisture:Medium
Plant Characteristics
Height:1 ft
Width:1 ft
Bloom:Winter flowers
Bloom Time:March to April
Bloom Color:Green
Additional Characteristics
Trees


Fruit

Leaves


Bark
Wildlife value

Poisonous
Description Lenten Rose is a welcome addition to the shade garden with it is leathery leaves and nodding cup shaped flowers which grace the plants in late winter.

  Morphology:
Lenten Rose is classified as a herbaceous perennial that grows to 1-1.5’ tall and as wide. The large compound leaves are up to 18” long and 16” wide. Each leaf is composed of from 5 to 11 lance-shaped leaflets with sawtooth edges. The distinctive foliage is dark green and leathery and is one of the plant's most appealing features.

Flowers which emerge in late winter (March) resemble single roses. The 2”-3” wide blossoms are held above the foliage in loose clusters and are white or greenish white. There are cultivars sold in the trade which have pink, rose or purple flowers.

  Adaptation:
Lenten Rose needs light to full shade. It prefers a rich loose, humus-rich soil. Once established the plants don’t like to be disturbed.

All parts of this plant are reported to be highly toxic. Keep from pets and children.

  Pests:
No serious insect or disease problems.
For assistance, contact Dr. Charles Brun (brunc@wsu.edu), (360) 397-6060 5701
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