Hellebore 
Flora Frost Helleborus x ericsmithii HGC Shooting Star
| Flower type | Single |
| Leaf margin | Serrate; Dentate |
| Winter hardness | Good (USDA-zone 5, 6) |
| Flower color | White-white-157D |
| Soil fertility | Not very demanding |
| Flower diameter | 6 - 6,5 cm |
| Plant height | 40 - 50 cm; 30 - 40 cm |
| Flowering month(s) | January; February; March; December |
| Leaf size | 10 - 15 cm |
| soil pH requirement | Alkaline (pH > 7,5); Neutral (pH 6,5 - 7,5); Slightly acidic (pH 4,5 - 6,5) |
| Light conditions | Semi-shades |
| Leaf division | Digitate-lobed |
| Leaf, main color | Dark green |
| Flower color distribution | Unicolored |
| Moisture requirements | Well-drained; Moist |
| Soil type | Humus rich |
The Helleborus x ericsmithii HGC Shooting Star, also known as Hellebore, is a beautiful and versatile flower that is perfect for any garden. With its single flower type and serrate, dentate leaf margin, it adds a touch of elegance to any landscape.
One of the best features of the Helleborus x ericsmithii HGC Shooting Star is its winter hardness. It is able to withstand harsh winter conditions in USDA zones 5 and 6, making it a great option for gardeners in colder climates. Its ability to flower during the winter months, specifically in January, February, March, and even December, adds a pop of color to an otherwise dreary season.
The flower color of the Hellebore is a stunning white-white shade, designated as 157D according to the RHS Color Chart. This pure white shade adds a sense of purity and tranquility to any garden. Combined with its unicolored flower color distribution and dark green main color of the leaves, this flower stands out amongst other plants in the garden.
In terms of soil fertility, the Helleborus x ericsmithii HGC Shooting Star is not very demanding. It can thrive in soil that is not overly rich, making it an easy flower to care for. It prefers soil that is well-drained and slightly acidic, with a pH ranging from 4.5 to 6.5. However, it can also tolerate alkaline and neutral pH levels, making it adaptable to different soil conditions.
In terms of size, the Helleborus x ericsmithii HGC Shooting Star can reach a height of 40 to 50 cm, with some smaller varieties growing up to 30 to 40 cm. Its leaf size ranges from 10 to 15 cm, with a digitate-lobed leaf division. This unique leaf shape adds visual interest to the plant, complementing its delicate flowers.
The Helleborus x ericsmithii HGC Shooting Star prefers semi-shade conditions, making it a great addition to gardens with partially shaded areas. It can thrive in both well-drained and moist soil, making it versatile in terms of moisture requirements. It also prefers soil that is rich in humus, which adds necessary nutrients for healthy growth.
In conclusion, the Helleborus x ericsmithii HGC Shooting Star is a stunning flower that adds elegance and beauty to any garden. With its winter hardness, pure white flowers, and unique leaf shape, it is a standout plant throughout the year. Its adaptability to different soil conditions and moisture requirements make it a great choice for gardeners of all levels of experience. Whether planted in containers or in the ground, this Hellebore is sure to impress.
Market availability index by month:
| Jan. | Feb. | Mar. | Apr. | May | Jun. | Jul. | Aug. | Sep. | Oct. | Nov. | Dec. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 4 | 3 |