Lenten rose is a clump-forming, late winter-blooming perennial which typically grows 1-1.5' tall and features large, cup-shaped, rose-like, usually nodding flowers (3-4" diameter) with center crowns of conspicuously contrasting yellow stamens. Flower color is extremely variable, ranging from white to pink to light rose-purple, frequently with interior spotting. The flowers are long-lasting and remain beautiful as they slowly fade. Although the flowers may resemble wild roses (and despite the common name "Lenten rose"), hellebores are not roses and belong to the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae). This attractive little evergreen is especially valued for its fine foliage and for the novelty of mid-winter blooms. It is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 4b through 9, is easy to grow and is normally not bothered by pests. In areas where the soil freezes, a midwinter thaw will bring a much appreciated floral display. Helleborus orientalis is long-lived in part-shade with moderate water and will self sow. When they are not in bloom they remain as lush ground cover throughout the year; and they have been reported to be deer proof. You can find Helleborus orientalis in the Fern Valley Native Plant Collection at the National Arboretum.