Unique Foliage for Your Winter Garden
The Rockies Helleborus series signals the end of winter with a welcome burst of life. Hardy in USDA Zones 6–9, these perennials begin pushing up new growth in late winter, often crowned with blushing buds that unfurl into richly colored blooms by early spring. Shades of burgundy, chartreuse, and white bring unexpected vibrancy when much of the garden still lies dormant.
What truly sets the Rockies series apart is its bold, textured foliage—spiky, dramatic, and visually compelling even after the blooms fade. These striking evergreen leaves offer lasting interest, making the series a go-to for gardeners looking to add color and texture throughout the colder months.
The Rockies Hellebores offer bold, evergreen leaves—spiky, textured, and full of personality. Even after the flowers fade, these plants continue to shine, adding year-round interest and structure to the garden.
Each variety brings something unique to the mix:
- Mount Nebo – Deep crimson foliage that adds warmth and drama.
- Pike’s Peak – Jagged, tooth-like leaves with a silvery sheen; truly photogenic.
- Snowshoe Mountain – Blushed stems and buds with freckled, soft-textured foliage.
- Mount Teton – Edgy, rugged leaves that live up to the mountain’s name.
- Hollowtop Mountain – Marbled foliage with blooms ranging from chartreuse to white.
- Table Mountain – Spring growth emerges in green and gold with rosy purple flowers.
While these varieties are still working their way to the broader market, they’ve already made an impression—appearing at major horticulture trade shows and even earning a Retailer’s Choice Award at Cultivate 2024.
“I look forward to new hellebore growth after a cold winter, blushing with burgundy, chartreuse, and white colors,” Kris Smith, Marketing Manager at Must Have Perennials®
Kris has been growing the Rockies Hellebores in her part-shaded rock garden in Zone 7 for the past two seasons as a trial, creating a garden full of unique foliage and photo-worthy moments.
Snowshoe Mountain
Mount Teton
Mount Nebo
❄️ How to Help Hellebores Thrive This Winter
If you’re dreaming of a winter garden that doesn’t fade to gray, start here.
These hellebores offer long-lasting blooms and bold foliage when most plants are done for the season. Varieties like Pike’s Peak, Grand Teton, Snowshoe Mountain, Table Mountain, and more are bred to shine—even in the chill.
Hellebores thrive in cooler temperatures and prefer well-draining soil in partially to fully shaded areas. While they are drought-tolerant once established, they may struggle in hot, humid climates.
Here’s how to care for them during the colder months:
1. Keep Them Cozy in the Cold
While hellebores are winter-hardy, they’ll still appreciate some protection—especially in snowless winters. A light mulch of straw or dry leaves around the base will help insulate the roots and protect buds from frost damage.
2. Start with Potted Plants
For faster blooms, start with potted hellebores. They’re already established and ready to go.
3. Watering: Check, Don’t Guess
Even in winter, your plants need water—but not too much. Use the finger test: if the soil is dry 1–2 inches down, it’s time to water. Natural rain or snow usually does the trick, but during dry spells, especially with new or potted plants, give them a drink.
Table Mountain
Pikes Peak
Hollowtop Mountain
4. Feed at the Right Time
Hold off on fertilizing until late winter to early spring, just as new growth appears. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a top-up of compost works best. Avoid fertilizing in late fall – new growth stimulated by feeding may be too tender to survive a freeze.
5. Planting Tips for Success
Don’t bury the crown of the plant. Keep it just about the soil line to prevent rot.
6. Clean Up for Healthier Growth
At winter’s end, give your hellebores a quick tidy. Snip off old, damaged, or spotted leaves to prevent fungal issues and make room for fresh blooms. While hellebores are evergreen, their foliage can look a bit rough by spring—don’t be afraid to trim lightly.
All hellebores are toxic if ingested, so take care around pets and young kids. For that reason, wildlife will leave your hellebores alone.
7. A Touch of the Mountains, Right in Your Garden
Whether you’re growing Mount Nebo, Hollowtop Mountain, or any other variety in the Rockies Series, you’re adding more than just a plant—you’re capturing a bit of mountain spirit. These rugged yet refined perennials are built for beauty and built to last.
Show them a little care through the colder months, and you’ll be rewarded with vibrant, unexpected blooms when everything else is still fast asleep.
Happy winter gardening—and here’s to colorful surprises in the cold!
Written by: Kris Smith
NGB Member: Must Have Perennials
“This post is an educational/inspirational service of the National Garden Bureau and our members. Please credit and link to National Garden Bureau and author member when using all or parts of this article.”
