Helleborus niger 'Praecox'

Also Known As

Praecox Christmas Rose

Plant type

perennial

size

H: 8"-12"
W: 8"-12"

planting zones

5a-9b

More Options

Helleborus niger 'Praecox' plant details

Helleborus niger 'Praecox' is a broadleaf deciduous perennial with green foliage. In winter white flowers emerge. Grows well with mostly sun - mostly shade and low water. Drought tolerant once established. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in clay, rich and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Helleborus niger 'Praecox'

Plant type: perennial
Plant family: ranunculaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 8 IN - 12 IN - wide, 8 IN - 12 IN - tall
Flowers: white blooms in winter
Uses: border plant, container plant, easy-to-grow, winter interest, woodland garden

GROWING CONDITIONS for Helleborus niger 'Praecox'

USDA Zones: 5a - 9b
Sun exposure: mostly sun - mostly shade
Watering frequency: low
Resistant to: deer and rabbit, verticillium wilt
Soil needs: clay, rich and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Helleborus niger is the Christmas rose which usually blooms in January for us, fully a month or more before H. x hybridus, the Lenten roses. The flowers are snow white with a rose flush as they age. The foliage is glossy and evergreen. Not the best for our climate since the rain can cause some black spotting of the foliage and flowers. That being said if you provide some overhead protection from winter rain (under shrubs or near the house) this species can be grown well in Vancouver.

By: Phoenix Perennials and Specialty Plants Ltd.

On the hunt for the elusive Christmas-blooming Christmas rose, this one is a must, since "praecox" means early. Not putting too much hope into it, we are now surprised to see flowers mid December on about half the plants. Did we finally find it? Prefers well-drained soil.