Happy Hellebores and Heliopsis ‘Tuscan Sun’
Happy Hellebores Hellebores are like rays of glorious sunshine in early spring. They promise warmer weather ahead. There are approximately 20 different species of this deer and rabbit resistant perennial. Flowers can have single or double petals and range in color from pink, red, white, purple, green, yellow, and almost black. Green Hellebore (Helleborus viridis) is the shortest (12”- 18”) while Corsican Hellebore (Helleborus argutifolius) is the tallest (3’). Flowers are downward, outward or upward facing. Some popular series are the Honeymoon series (all single petaled flowers); the Wedding Party series (all double petaled flowers) and The Gold Collection series (all outward facing). I’ve recently discovered Hellebores with lovely variegated leaves. ‘Penny’s Pink’ (pictured, from Carolyn’s Shade Garden)) and ‘HGC Spring Party’ are stunning. Hellebores enjoy part shade to shade and can range in hardiness from Zones 4 – 9
Heliopsis helianthoides ‘Tuscan Sun’ This native (technically a nativar) perennial produces masses of cheerful yellow flowers throughout the summer that are prized by butterflies. Unlike others in this species, it is much more compact, topping out at 24”. ‘Tuscan Sun’ thrives in full sun and is heat tolerant. It is perfect for the mid-border, containers and for a cutting flower. This is just one of the many plants you will find listed on the Proven Winners Nativars and Natives web pages. They also have an informative page dedicated to what is a nativar.
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