Helleborus x hybridus 'Kingston Cardinal'

Species

Helleborus x hybridusLenten Rose

21 other cultivars

perennial

Kingston Cardinal Hellebore

Helleborus x hybridus 'Kingston Cardinal'

The Story

Plant Bio

Helleborus x hybridus 'Kingston Cardinal' is a perennial evergreen shrub with elegant, leathery, dark green foliage and nodding, cup-shaped flowers in a striking deep red hue, blooming in late winter to early spring.

This cultivar is renowned for its vibrant, long-lasting blossoms and its ability to tolerate shade and cold, making it a popular choice for early spring garden interest.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides early winter interest with attractive foliage and flowers, brightening shaded gardens.

Resistant to deer and rabbits, making it a reliable groundcover in protected areas.

Supports early pollinators emerging in late winter and early spring.

SpeciesHelleborus x hybridusLenten Rose

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Many years

Native To

Cultivated hybrid

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late winter – Early spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a shaded spot with well-draining soil.
Tuck seeds or divisions into the soil in early fall or late winter.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Protect from heavy frost with mulch or cover during winter.

Pro Tip

Plant in shade with rich, moist soil for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and insulate roots
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer
Remove old leaves in late winter for a cleaner look

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t expose to direct, harsh sunlight
Refrain from fertilizing in late summer
Never disturb roots during the growing season

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderEvergreen foundation plantingVanilla-scented shaded border

Companion Plants

HostaFerns Astilbe Heuchera Epimedium

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Kingston Cardinal Hellebore questions

What zones can Kingston Cardinal Hellebore grow in?

Kingston Cardinal Hellebore is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Kingston Cardinal Hellebore deer resistant?

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

When does Kingston Cardinal Hellebore bloom?

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

Does Kingston Cardinal Hellebore need full sun?

Kingston Cardinal Hellebore does best in part shade.