Icebreaker Hellebore Helleborus × ericsmithii
ABOUT
Helleborus × ericsmithii, commonly known as the "Icebreaker Pico" lenten rose, boasts a rich array of visual features that make it a coveted addition to gardens. The plant's foliage provides a lush backdrop for its flowers, with leathery, dark green leaves that are often comprised of several smaller leaflets arrayed in a toothed formation around a central stem. These leaves may sometimes display a touch of silver frosting, adding to the plant's allure. The flowers are the true highlight of the "Icebreaker Pico", presenting a breathtaking floral display during late winter to early spring, a period when most other plants remain dormant. The blossoms are typically cup-shaped and nodding, with a range of colors that can include creamy white, pink, and pale green. Some flowers exhibit a lovely contrast, featuring deeper shades or blushes in the center, blending outward to paler edges. At the center of each bloom, a cluster of prominent, contrasting stamens often adds an additional decorative element. The combination of the striking foliage and the elegant, frost-resistant flowers makes the "Icebreaker Pico" lenten rose a valuable specimen for adding color and interest to the winter and early spring garden.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae.
Synonyms
Eric Smith's Hellebore, Ice Breaker Hellebore, Winter Moonbeam Hellebore, Snow Love Hellebore, Winter's Bliss Hellebore, HGC Champion Hellebore.
Common names
Helleborus × ericsmithii.
ToxicityTo humans
The Snow Rose, also known as Helleborus × ericsmithii, is considered toxic to humans if ingested. All parts of the plant contain glycosides, which can cause severe vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea if consumed. In some cases, it may also result in dizziness and tremors due to its cardiotoxic effects. Skin contact with the sap may also lead to irritation and dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
To pets
The Snow Rose is toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Ingesting any part of the plant can lead to symptoms such as salivation, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Additionally, the glycosides present can affect the heart, potentially causing cardiac arrhythmias or other serious heart conditions. Due to its toxic nature, prompt veterinary attention is recommended if a pet consumes any part of this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Dark green
Flower color
Varies
Height
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Spread
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5-9
Native area
Garden origin
Benefits
General Benefits- Year-round interest – Helleborus × ericsmithii, commonly known as hellebore, offers evergreen foliage that adds beauty to gardens throughout the year.
- Winter blooms – Hellebores are one of the few plants that bloom in winter, bringing color to otherwise dormant gardens.
- Drought tolerance – Once established, hellebores are quite drought-tolerant, making them suitable for gardens with low water availability.
- Shade tolerance – They thrive in shaded areas where other plants might struggle to grow, making them ideal for woodland gardens or darker spots.
- Low maintenance – Hellebores require minimal upkeep beyond the occasional removal of old leaves to keep them looking tidy.
- Deer and rabbit resistance – These plants are often resistant to deer and rabbits, which can be beneficial in areas where these animals are a nuisance to gardeners.
- Pest and disease resistance – Hellebores have a natural resistance to many pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Versatility in landscape – With their appealing foliage and flowers, they can be used in a variety of garden designs, including borders, containers, and as ground cover.
- Attracts pollinators – Their early flowers provide a valuable nectar source for bees and other early-season pollinators when few other blooms are available.
- Long-lasting flowers – Hellebore blooms last for several weeks, sometimes even months, offering extended visual appeal.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Helleborus × ericsmithii, commonly known as hellebore, can be used in cut flower arrangements due to its longevity when cut and its unique, attractive blooms that add a touch of winter interest.
- The hellebore's leathery foliage can provide contrast in foliage-based bouquets or green arrangements, especially when other plants might be scarce in colder seasons.
- As a photography subject, hellebores are popular due to their early blooming in winter to early spring, providing a gorgeous subject when other flowers are not yet available.
- The seed pods of hellebores can be used in dried floral arrangements for their interesting structure and form that adds an artistic element to crafts.
- In garden design, hellebores can act as ground cover in shaded areas where other plants may struggle to grow, due to their dense and spreading foliage.
- They play a role in ecological gardening by providing early-season pollen for bees when other food sources might be scarce.
- Artists can use images of the hellebore in botanical illustration, a genre of art that emphasizes the accuracy and detail of plant species.
- During winter, the robust nature of hellebore petals makes them suitable for creating natural confetti, as they don't wilt as easily as other petals.
- Hellebores can be employed as living mulch, as their foliage can suppress weeds and maintain soil moisture in garden beds.
- They are used as a symbol of tranquility and serenity in gardens designed for meditation or contemplation, because of their subtle and calming appearance.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Hellebore is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Hellebore is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Helleborus x ericsmithii, commonly known as the Christmas Rose, blooms in the coldest months, symbolizing the ability to endure challenges and thrive even in harsh conditions.
- New Beginnings: As one of the first plants to flower in late winter, it symbolizes rebirth and the onset of new endeavors following dormant periods.
- Protection: Throughout history, Hellebores were thought to have magical properties and were used to ward off evil influences, symbolizing safeguarding and spiritual protection.
- Tranquility: The plant's ability to bloom quietly and persistently in winter suggests a sense of peace and serenity during tumultuous times.
- Hope: The Christmas Rose is often associated with hope, as its bloom is a reminder that the dark days of winter will eventually give way to the light of spring.
WaterThe Hellebore, also known as Helleborus × ericsmithii, prefers consistent moisture but does not like to be waterlogged. Water the plant thoroughly once a week with about one gallon per plant, ensuring that the soil is moist but not soggy. During periods of drought or extreme heat, you may need to water twice a week. It's crucial not to let the soil dry out completely, but overwatering can lead to root rot. Reduce watering in the winter when the plant is dormant.
LightHellebores, including Helleborus × ericsmithii, thrive in partial shade to light full shade conditions. The best spot for your Hellebore is a location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade, or dappled sunlight throughout the day. Avoid placing them in deep shade or full sun, as this can stress the plant and affect its blooming.
TemperatureHellebores, specifically Helleborus × ericsmithii, enjoy a moderate climate and can tolerate temperatures as low as the mid-20s (Fahrenheit) during winter to highs of around 90 degrees in the summer. However, they perform best in a temperature range between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure they are sheltered from harsh winter winds and excessively hot temperatures.
PruningPruning Helleborus × ericsmithii, commonly known as Hellebore, involves removing old, damaged, or diseased foliage to promote new growth and improve air circulation. Prune in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. This is also an ideal time to cut back the flower stalks after blooming to maintain a tidy appearance. Pruning can be done annually, or as needed to keep the plant healthy and looking its best.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Icebreaker Pippa, which is the common name for Helleborus × ericsmithii, thrives in rich, well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. A mix containing roughly one-third each of garden soil, compost or well-rotted manure, and sharp sand or fine gravel creates an ideal growing medium for this plant, providing both nutrients and good drainage.
RepottingIcebreaker Pippa, or Helleborus × ericsmithii, does not require frequent repotting and can typically be done every 2-3 years. The best time to repot is in late summer after it has finished flowering or in early fall before it enters its growth period.
Humidity & MistingIcebreaker Pippa, the common name for Helleborus × ericsmithii, prefers average to above-average humidity levels but is tolerant of a wide range of conditions and does not have special humidity requirements.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and cool temperature for Icebreaker Pippa.
Outdoor
For Icebreaker Pippa, choose a shaded spot with good drainage.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleHelleborus × ericsmithii, commonly known as "Eric Smith's Hellebore," begins its life cycle when seeds germinate, typically in spring or early summer, requiring a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. The seedlings develop a rosette of leaves during their first year, focusing on establishing a strong root system while staying relatively small. In subsequent years, the plant grows larger, with more substantial foliage and begins to form flower buds, usually blooming in late winter to early spring. The flowers, ranging from white to pink, are hermaphroditic, containing both male and female organs, which allows for self-fertilization or cross-pollination by insects. After pollination, the flowers develop into capsules containing numerous seeds that, once mature, are dispersed nearby to initiate the next generation. Eric Smith's Hellebore is a perennial plant, and once mature, it can continue this reproductive cycle for many years, with the foliage remaining evergreen in milder winters.
PropogationPropogation time
Late winter to early spring
Helleborus × ericsmithii, commonly known as the hybrid Lenten rose, is primarily propagated by division. The best time for this method is in late spring or early autumn when the plant is not in active bloom. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the clump and gently separate the plant into smaller sections, ensuring that each division has at least two to three growth buds. Replant the divisions promptly at the same depth they were growing originally, spacing them about 12 inches (approximately 30 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate growth. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This method of propagation allows the plant to recover and minimizes stress, resulting in new plants that will typically bloom within a year or two.
