Species

Helleborus x sterniiHelleborus sternii

5 other cultivars

perennial

Stern's Hellebore 'Rachel'

Helleborus x sternii 'Rachel'

The Story

Plant Bio

Helleborus x sternii 'Rachel' is an evergreen perennial with serrated, blue-green foliage often veined in silver. In late winter and early spring, it produces outward-facing, cup-shaped flowers of dusky pink and pale green.

This cultivar is noted for its attractive silvery-veined foliage and dusky pink flowers that provide color in the winter garden.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides elegant, evergreen foliage with striking nodding flowers in late fall and early spring, enhancing shaded garden beds.

Resists deer and rabbits, reducing garden damage; tolerates drought once established.

Supports pollinators like bees with late-season nectar sources.

SpeciesHelleborus x sterniiHelleborus sternii

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moist, well-drained soil

Lifespan

Many years with proper care

Native To

Hybrid origin

Toxicity

Toxic to pets and humans if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into well-drained, shaded soil
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity
Plant in early fall for best bloom
Water consistently during first year
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Fertilize with balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring

Pro Tip

Plant in shaded areas with rich, well-draining soil for best results

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture
Prune dead or damaged leaves in early spring
Fertilize annually with organic compost

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not expose to full sun in hot climates
Refrain from heavy pruning during flowering
Avoid planting in poorly drained soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland garden with evergreen accentsMoist border with fragrant, late-season interestPartially shaded rock garden

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Pulmonaria Astilbe Epimedium

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Stern's Hellebore 'Rachel' questions

What zones can Stern's Hellebore 'Rachel' grow in?

Stern's Hellebore 'Rachel' is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Stern's Hellebore 'Rachel' deer resistant?

Yes — Stern's Hellebore 'Rachel' is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Stern's Hellebore 'Rachel' bloom?

Stern's Hellebore 'Rachel' typically blooms in late winter to early spring through early spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Stern's Hellebore 'Rachel' need full sun?

Stern's Hellebore 'Rachel' does best in part shade.