Plant of the Month: December

Hellebore

Garsons Plant of the Month is the hellebore or Christmas rose, which will be budding nicely around now. This hardy, compact shrub braves the cold every winter and can flower reliably until late spring. It’s known for a display of cup-shaped flowers ranging from pure white to dusky pink through to deep red. There are even speckled varieties.

The hellebore likes a semi-shady position in well-drained soil. It’s ideal for filling a bare space below a taller shrub. You can grow it in a raised bed or container, making it easier to appreciate the pretty nodding flowers. How about a festive planter with hellebore, cyclamen and some trailing variegated ivy?

The hellebore is slow growing and low maintenance. Keep it watered during dry spells. Cut back the leaves when new foliage shows through and give it a good mulch once a year. Stock up on this festive winner while it’s 20% off at Garsons in December.