Lenten Rose Helleborus 'Harvington Rebekah' (PBR)
ABOUT
Helleborus 'Harvington Rebekah', commonly known as Lenten rose, is a perennial plant that is known for its striking, cup-shaped flowers. The blooms have a delicate appearance and come in a variety of soft shades. The petals of 'Harvington Rebekah' are usually creamy white to pink and often feature attractive speckles or flushes of deeper color which can range from rosy pinks to purples. Each flower has numerous stamens at its center, which add a contrasting and eye-catching detail. The foliage of the Lenten rose is equally impressive, with leathery, dark green leaves that are divided into several segments, giving them an almost hand-like appearance with serrated edges. The leaves form a robust, evergreen clump that provides a lush backdrop for the elegant flowers. The overall charm of the Lenten rose lies in its early flowering period, often blooming in late winter or early spring when the rest of the garden is still dormant. Its flowers last a long time, gradually fading to enchanting shades as they mature. The Lenten rose is cherished as a harbinger of spring and adds a burst of delicate beauty to shady garden spots during the colder months.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Harvington Rebekah Hellebore, Lenten Rose.
Common names
Helleborus 'Harvington Rebekah' (PBR).
ToxicityTo humans
The plant known as Lenten rose is toxic to humans. Ingesting any part of the plant can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea due to the presence of toxic compounds like glycosides. In severe cases, it can also cause depression of the central nervous system. Contact with skin may lead to irritation or allergic reactions, and handling the plant should be done with care.
To pets
The plant known as Lenten rose is also toxic to pets. If ingested by animals like dogs or cats, it can cause symptoms similar to those in humans, including drooling, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. In some instances, consuming the Lenten rose can lead to depression and may require veterinary attention. Owners should prevent pets from accessing and ingesting any part of this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
15 inches (38 cm)
Spread
24 inches (60 cm)
Plant type
Herbaceous
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Foliage: Helleborus 'Harvington Rebekah' features evergreen leaves that provide year-round interest in the garden.
- Early Blooms: As one of the first plants to bloom in late winter or early spring, it offers color when most gardens are still dormant.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, this Lenten rose is fairly drought-tolerant, requiring less frequent watering.
- Shade Tolerant: It is well-suited for shaded areas, making it ideal for woodland gardens or darker corners of a yard.
- Deer and Rabbit Resistant: The plant is known for being resistant to browsing by deer and rabbits, protecting it from wildlife damage.
- Long Blooming Period: It features a long blooming period, often lasting for several months, providing prolonged visual interest.
- Low Maintenance: Helleborus 'Harvington Rebekah' is relatively low maintenance, not typically requiring deadheading or complicated care.
- Ground Cover: Its bushy growth habit makes it good for ground cover, suppressing weeds and covering bare spots in the landscape.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Rituals and Celebrations: Hellebore is sometimes used in winter festivals as it is one of the few plants that bloom around Christmas time, earning it the common name "Christmas Rose". Its flowers are incorporated into decorations and bouquets.
- Educational Tool: Biology teachers may use Hellebore plants, like the 'Harvington Rebekah', to educate students about plant reproduction and the early flowering mechanisms in certain species.
- Drawing and Painting: The 'Harvington Rebekah', with its distinctive flowers, is a popular subject for botanical artists and illustrators learning to capture plant characteristics.
- Dye Production: The blooms and leaves of some Hellebore species can be used to produce natural dyes for fabrics, though 'Harvington Rebekah' is not commonly used for this purpose.
- Garden Design: Landscape designers often use Hellebores like 'Harvington Rebekah' for their attractive foliage and winter interest in shade gardens and woodland settings.
- Photography: Garden photographers may specifically seek out Hellebores due to their early bloom time and photogenic quality, making them a popular subject for winter and early spring garden photography.
- Companion Planting: Hellebores can be used in companion planting alongside spring bulbs and other shade-loving perennials to create a succession of flowering that provides visual interest throughout the growing season.
- Perfume Inspiration: Although they are not typically known for their fragrance, the unique and subtle scent of Hellebore flowers can inspire natural perfume makers in their scent compositions.
- Floral Arrangements: Varieties of Hellebore like 'Harvington Rebekah' are used in cut floral arrangements, especially for winter weddings and events due to their seasonal blooming.
- Green Roof Planting: Low-water-need and shade-tolerant plants like Hellebores can be considered for green roof installations, particularly in areas with temperate climates and where the building can support their soil depth requirements.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Lenten Rose is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Lenten Rose is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Helleborus 'Harvington Rebekah', commonly known as Lenten Rose, often blooms in late winter or early spring, pushing through the cold, hard ground and snow. This symbolizes strength and the ability to overcome adversity.
- Hope: Its early bloom is a sign that spring is approaching, making it a symbol of hope and the promise of new beginnings.
- Protection: Historically, hellebores were thought to have protective qualities, warding off evil spirits and negative influences.
- Beauty: The plant has beautiful, nodding flowers, despite the harsh conditions it often faces when it blooms, symbolizing beauty and grace under pressure.
- Serenity: The Lenten Rose has a calming appearance, often found in tranquil garden settings, and thus can be associated with peace and serenity.
WaterLenten roses, like Helleborus 'Harvington Rebekah', prefer to be kept moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water them once or twice a week with about 1 inch of water each time, ensuring the soil is thoroughly moistened. In the absence of rainfall, maintain this schedule. During the winter reduce watering, but do not allow the soil to completely dry out. The amount of water can be adjusted based on temperature and soil moisture levels, as overly wet conditions can lead to root rot.
LightLenten roses, such as Helleborus 'Harvington Rebekah', thrive in partial to full shade. They are well-suited for spots that receive dappled sunlight underneath trees or on the north side of buildings where they can be protected from the harsh afternoon sun. Ensuring they have adequate shade will help maintain their vibrant colors and promote healthy growth.
TemperatureLenten roses, including Helleborus 'Harvington Rebekah', are hardy and can survive in a range of temperature conditions. They can tolerate winter temperatures as low as -20°F and are comfortable during the growing season at temperatures between 50°F and 85°F. To ensure the best growth, aim to keep them in their ideal temperature range during their active growing seasons.
PruningLenten roses, such as Helleborus 'Harvington Rebekah', should be pruned to remove old, damaged, or diseased foliage, which will help to promote new growth and improve the plant's overall appearance. The best time to prune is late winter or early spring, just before new growth starts. Cut back the old leaves to the base to allow the blooms to be more visible. Regular trimming isn't necessary, but an annual tidy-up will keep your plant looking its best.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLenten rose prefers a well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH of around 7. A mix of one part garden soil, one part compost, and one part coarse sand or perlite is often suitable. An added layer of mulch can help maintain moisture and soil temperature.
RepottingLenten rose does not need frequent repotting; generally, every 2 to 3 years is sufficient, or when the plant outgrows its current container. It's best to repot in the late fall or early spring.
Humidity & MistingLenten rose is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does well in typical outdoor humidity. While specific humidity levels aren't critical, average room humidity is usually adequate indoors.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow Lenten rose near a window with bright, indirect light.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade with shelter from harsh elements.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleHelleborus 'Harvington Rebekah', commonly known as Lenten Rose, is a perennial plant that begins its life cycle with seed germination, which typically occurs in spring or early summer, under the right temperature and moisture conditions. After germination, seedlings emerge and develop a root system and foliage through the vegetative growth stage. Over time, the plant establishes itself, growing larger and developing more leaves. In the following winters, once mature enough, it produces distinctive, nodding flowers, often around Lent, hence the common name. These flowers are capable of self-pollination or cross-pollination by insects, leading to seed production. After flowering, the cycle continues as the plant enters a period of dormancy in the hotter summer months, conserving energy for the next growth cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Helleborus 'Harvington Rebekah', commonly known as the Lenten Rose, is by division. Division involves separating a mature plant into several smaller segments, each with roots and shoots. The best time for dividing Helleborus 'Harvington Rebekah' is in late summer to early autumn, after flowering has finished and the plant is entering its dormancy period. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire plant, ensuring a good amount of roots is attached to each section. Gently tease apart the clumps by hand or cut into sections with a sharp knife or spade. Each division should have at least 2-3 growth buds. Replant each section at the same depth it was originally growing, and water thoroughly to establish the new divisions.
