Christmas Rose Helleborus × ericsmithii 'Pirouette' (PBR)
ABOUT
Helleborus × ericsmithii 'Pirouette', commonly known as the Lenten rose, has a distinctive and alluring appearance. The plant is characterized by its lush, dark green foliage which forms a robust and leathery backdrop for its flowers. The leaves are divided into several segments, giving them an elegant, serrated look that is both ornate and slightly speckled, providing year-round visual interest even when the plant is not in bloom. The real showstopper of this plant is its blossoms, which emerge in late winter to early spring when few other plants are flowering. The flowers of 'Pirouette' are multi-petaled and resemble roses in their layered complexity. They are predominantly a soft, creamy pink to blush color, often with a deeper pink to purple hue accenting the petal edges and reverse, creating a delicate bi-color effect. Some blooms may also display a light green hue toward the center, which complements the foliage. In the center of each bloom, there are numerous small, fluffy stamens that add to the flower's intricate look. These stamens generally have a creamy yellow color, giving a gentle contrast against the pink petals and drawing in early spring pollinators. The Lenten rose is not only appreciated for its decorative flowers but also for its lengthy blooming period, which can span several months. After the initial bloom, the flowers gradually fade to a greenish color, but they remain on the plant for an extended period, providing a lasting aesthetic even after their peak display. With a subtle charm and the ability to provide color and life to gardens at a time when much of the landscape is dormant, Helleborus × ericsmithii 'Pirouette' is cherished by gardeners seeking winter and early spring interest. Its resilience, evergreen leaves, and elegant flowers make it a valuable addition to shaded garden areas.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Eric Smith's Hellebore, Pirouette Lenten Rose.
Common names
Helleborus × ericsmithii 'Pirouette' (PBR)
ToxicityTo humans
Hellebore, specifically the Helleborus × ericsmithii 'Pirouette', is toxic to humans. The plant contains various toxic compounds, including glycosides and alkaloids, that can cause poisoning if ingested. Symptoms of hellebore poisoning can include abdominal pain, cramping, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can lead to cardiac complications, respiratory problems, and even death. Therefore, handling this plant with care and avoiding ingestion of any part is essential to prevent potential adverse health effects.
To pets
Hellebore, specifically the Helleborus × ericsmithii 'Pirouette', is toxic to pets. Ingesting any part of the plant can result in poisoning, as it contains compounds such as glycosides and alkaloids that are harmful to animals. Symptoms of hellebore poisoning in pets can include drooling, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and, in severe cases, depression of the central nervous system, seizures, and cardiac complications. If you suspect your pet has ingested hellebore, seeking immediate veterinary care is crucial to manage the toxicity and reduce the risk of serious consequences.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Dark green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Cultivar
Benefits
General Benefits- Winter flowering: Helleborus 'Pirouette' blooms in late winter to early spring, offering color when most other plants are dormant.
- Drought-tolerant: Once established, it has good drought tolerance, making it suitable for gardens with less frequent watering.
- Shade-loving: It thrives in shady areas where other flowering plants may struggle, making it ideal for woodland gardens or shaded borders.
- Evergreen foliage: Provides year-round greenery and structure to the garden, with its leathery, dark green leaves.
- Low maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, with no need for deadheading and only occasional trimming or tidying up.
- Deer resistant: Its foliage and flowers are typically avoided by deer, making it a good choice for areas with high deer populations.
- Attracts pollinators: The flowers attract bees and other beneficial insects, supporting pollinator populations and contributing to garden biodiversity.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic inspiration: Artists may use the striking appearance of Lenten rose 'Pirouette' in paintings, drawings, and prints to capture the beauty of its blooms and foliage.
- Floral photography subjects: Due to their early bloom time and resilience, Lenten roses can provide opportunities for photographers to practice macro and close-up photography during the late winter and early spring.
- Educational tool: Horticulture students and enthusiasts can use Lenten rose 'Pirouette' as a study specimen for learning about hybridization and plant breeding techniques.
- Dye production: The petals of Lenten rose may be used in the homemade production of natural dyes for fabrics and yarns, although results may vary in color.
- Garden theme backdrop: Lenten rose 'Pirouette' may be used to create a 'winter interest' theme in gardens, showcasing plants that thrive or bloom during the colder months.
- Landscape contests: Lenten rose 'Pirouette' can be featured in garden design competitions, especially those focusing on shade gardening or winter blooms.
- Companion planting with bulbs: Lenten rose can be used to underplant spring-flowering bulbs such as daffodils and tulips to extend the blooming period of garden beds.
- Boutonniere and corsages: Freshly cut flowers of the Lenten rose can be used to make unique boutonnieres and corsages for weddings and proms during its blooming season.
- Pottery and ceramics: Images or shapes of Lenten rose 'Pirouette' may inspire designs on pottery and ceramics, capturing their form and pattern on vases and plates.
- Frost-affected art: Due to its resistance to frost, Lenten rose can be used by artists to create natural art by capturing the frost patterns that form on its flowers and leaves in cold conditions.
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: Pirouette, a variety of Lenten Rose, often blooms in late winter or early spring, pushing through the harsh conditions of the late-season frosts and snows. It symbolizes the ability to endure difficult circumstances and emerge with strength.
- Purity: The Lenten Rose is associated with purity due to its early bloom time during the season of Lent. It serves as a reminder of renewal and the washing away of the past.
- Serenity: The gentle hues and nodding nature of the flower can symbolize peace and tranquility, providing a sense of calm to those who view it.
- Hope: The emergence of its flowers in the late winter months makes the Lenten Rose a symbol of hope, indicating that spring and warmer days are on the horizon.
- Protection: In some folklore, it is believed that Hellebores could ward off evil influences, thus they might symbolize protection from negative forces.
WaterThe Lenten Rose should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Generally, providing about one inch of water every week during active growth in spring and fall is sufficient. In the summer, especially if conditions are dry, you may need to water the plants once or twice per week. Adjust watering during the winter when the plant is dormant, usually requiring less frequent watering. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.
LightLenten Roses thrive in partial shade to full shade conditions. The ideal spot for these plants is under deciduous trees where they receive filtered sunlight or in a north-facing garden where they can be protected from the harsh afternoon sun. They can tolerate some morning sun, but should be sheltered from the strong rays of the midday and afternoon sun.
TemperatureLenten Roses are quite tolerant to a range of temperatures and can survive in temperatures as low as 5°F and as high as 80°F. However, they prefer a temperate climate and their ideal growing temperatures are between 40°F and 60°F. Ensure that they're protected from extreme cold by mulching in the fall, especially in zones at the colder end of their hardiness range.
PruningPrune Lenten Roses to remove old, damaged, or diseased leaves and to encourage new growth, generally in late winter or early spring just as new growth begins. Remove spent flowers if you do not wish for the plant to self-seed. Pruning is not frequent and is often done once a year during this time period.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Lenten Rose favors a well-draining, loamy soil mix rich in organic matter with a pH range of 7.0 (neutral) to slightly alkaline. A mix of one-third garden soil, one-third compost or leaf mold, and one-third grit or perlite will cater to its needs.
RepottingLenten Roses rarely need repotting; do it only if the plant is outgrowing its pot, typically every 3 to 4 years.
Humidity & MistingLenten Roses are tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels but prefer average to slightly higher humidity, without the need for specific adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure partial shade, cool temps, and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, protect from harsh winds, and mulch.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleHelleborus × ericsmithii 'Pirouette', commonly known as Lenten rose 'Pirouette', begins its life cycle when the seeds germinate, usually in spring or early summer, after undergoing a period of cold stratification. The seedlings slowly develop into juvenile plants, establishing a deep root system and a rosette of leaves during their first growing season. As the plant matures, which can take several years, it forms a clump of evergreen foliage and develops its characteristic flowering stems. Flowering typically occurs in late winter to early spring, with 'Pirouette' producing pink to white flowers that age to a deep pink. After pollination, if it occurs, the plant sets seed, which can be dispersed to produce new plants, completing the reproductive stage. Finally, older plants may eventually decline and die back, but they can also propagate vegetatively through division of the clump in early spring or fall.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
Helleborus × ericsmithii 'Pirouette', commonly known as lenten rose, is typically propagated through division. The best time to propagate by division is in late summer or early fall, after the plant has finished blooming but while the weather remains temperate. To divide, carefully dig up the entire plant, making sure to keep a good clump of soil with the roots. Using a sharp knife or spade, slice through the root ball to separate it into smaller clumps, ensuring that each section has at least a couple of growing points or shoots. These individual sections can then be replanted at the same depth they were growing before, spaced about 12 inches (approximately 30 cm) apart to allow sufficient room for growth. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them in their new locations. With proper care, these divisions will mature and can eventually be divided again to create more plants.
