Overview

Helleborus niger 'Harvington Hybrid' is a perennial in the genus Helleborus, part of the Ranunculaceae family. It typically grows around 0.3 m tall. Helleborus niger 'Harvington Hybrid' grows best in partial shade and full shade, and tolerates most soils and neutral and alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders, woodland gardens and winter interest. It is native to Europe.

About

Helleborus niger, commonly called Christmas rose or black hellebore, is an evergreen perennial flowering plant in the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. It is one of about 20 species from the genus Helleborus.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Helleborus niger

About the genus

Commonly known as hellebores, the Eurasian genus Helleborus consists of approximately 20 species of herbaceous or evergreen perennial flowering plants in the family Ranunculaceae, within which it gave its name to the tribe of Helleboreae. Many hellebore species are poisonous.

Wikipedia contributors, "Hellebore", CC BY-SA 4.0Hellebore

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Helleborus

Sunlight
partial shade, full shade
Soil type
Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil pH
neutral, alkaline
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
north, east, west, shaded
Exposure
sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Helleborus niger 'Harvington Hybrid' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
perennial
Height
0.3 m
Suggested uses
borders, woodland gardens, winter interest
Native to
Europe
Toxicity
It is a poisonous cottage garden favourite because it flowers in the depths of winter.

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Helleborus niger 'Harvington Hybrid'

Cultivation
Prefers humus-rich, well-drained soil; avoid waterlogging; mulch in winter
Pruning
Remove old leaves in late winter before new growth appears
Propagation
Division, seed

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Helleborus niger 'Harvington Hybrid'?

Prefers humus-rich, well-drained soil; avoid waterlogging; mulch in winter.

Where is the best place to plant Helleborus niger 'Harvington Hybrid'?

Helleborus niger 'Harvington Hybrid' prefers partial shade and full shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Helleborus niger 'Harvington Hybrid' need?

Helleborus niger 'Harvington Hybrid' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It prefers neutral and alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Helleborus niger 'Harvington Hybrid'?

Remove old leaves in late winter before new growth appears.

How big does Helleborus niger 'Harvington Hybrid' grow?

Helleborus niger 'Harvington Hybrid' reaches a height of 0.3 m.

Is Helleborus niger 'Harvington Hybrid' hardy in the UK?

Helleborus niger 'Harvington Hybrid' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

How do I propagate Helleborus niger 'Harvington Hybrid'?

Division, seed.

Is Helleborus niger 'Harvington Hybrid' toxic?

It is a poisonous cottage garden favourite because it flowers in the depths of winter.

More in the Helleborus genus

Browse all Helleborus