|
 December
1998
 Buxus
microphylla
'Kingsville'
November
1998
Orostachys
malacophyllus
October
1998
Artemisia
schmidtiana
nana
September
1998
Athyrium
nipponicum
'Pictum'
August
1998
Cyclamen
purpurascens
July
1998
Thalictrum
kiusianum
June
1998
Geranium
cinereum
subcaulescens
May
1998
Genista
dalmatica
April
1998
Aquilegia
discolor
March
1998
Pulsatilla
patens
 February
1998
Helleborus
x hybridus
January
1998
Orostachys
spinosa
Archive 2004
Archive
2003
Archive
2002
Archive
2001
Archive
2000
Archive
1999
Archive
1997
|
Plant
of the Month
February
1998
Helleborus
x hybridus
by Nancy Swell
Hellebores
are members of the buttercup family, the Ranunculaceae. H.
x hybridus was originally named in 1894 to
cover hybrids between H.
orientalis and any other species.
Helleborastrum (the stemless hellebores) contains 9 species,
all of which cross so readily that true H. orientalis
probably exists only in the Balkan area, to the south and
east of the Black Sea. H. x
hybridus are known as Lenten Roses, orientalis
hybrids (of gardens), or frequently as H.
x orientalis. These are quite variable, but
generally are about 18 inches in height and width, but
increasing with age. Leaves overwinter, but may be removed
in late fall to allow room for new leaves.
Hardiness
depends on the clone; most are hardy to zones 4 or 5. They
are not at all fussy as to culture. They grow well in acid
to alkaline soils, whether sandy, loam, or even heavy clay.
In nature the species is found in fairly heavy, alkaline
soils in moderate shade. Normally they flower in February
and March. Flower color ranges from white, to pink, and
shades of purple.
|
