Lenten rose (Helleborus orientalis) is an evergreen a herbaceous perennial native to mediterranean areas including Greece, Turkey and the Caucasus region — areas which share our valley climate. The slow-growing Lenten rose blooms in winter or early spring, and its large compound leaves are dark green and leathery. Its shy white or greenish white flowers are 2"-3" resembling single roses held in loose clusters and nodding toward the ground. There are pink, rose and purple varieties as well as white with solid splotches of color with this species being a parent of many beautiful hybrids. The lenten rose requires heavy to light shade and moist, well-drained soil; propagation is by division in late summer. Caution: all parts of this plant are highly toxic to dogs and humans.
For a listing of other plants found growing within Davis, please visit our Town Flora page.
