Species

perennial

WM182 Purple Hellebore

The Story

Plant Bio

Helleborus purpurascens WM182 is a perennial evergreen herbaceous plant characterized by its leathery, dark green foliage and early spring blooming nodding, bell-shaped, purple flowers with a hint of green. It typically forms clumps and thrives in shaded, woodland garden settings.

This cultivar is distinguished by its robust, early flowering habit and its striking purple flowers that contrast beautifully with its glossy foliage, making it a desirable choice for shaded garden borders.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking purple flowers in early spring, evergreen foliage adds year-round interest.

Shade tolerant, deer resistant, suitable for woodland gardens.

Supports early pollinators emerging in late winter.

SpeciesHelleborus purpurascensPurple Hellebore

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Many years

Native To

Europe

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late winter – Early spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in fall for natural stratification.
Plant divisions in early spring in well-drained soil.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Apply slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
Prune dead or damaged leaves in late winter.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade with rich, well-drained soil for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
Mulch to keep roots cool and moist
Remove dead foliage to promote healthy growth
Fertilize annually in early spring

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t expose to full sun, which can scorch leaves
Never disturb roots during dormancy
Avoid heavy pruning in late summer

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shady woodland borderEarly spring garden accent

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Heuchera Astilbe

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

WM182 Purple Hellebore questions

What zones can WM182 Purple Hellebore grow in?

WM182 Purple Hellebore is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is WM182 Purple Hellebore deer resistant?

Yes — WM182 Purple Hellebore is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does WM182 Purple Hellebore bloom?

WM182 Purple 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 WM182 Purple Hellebore need full sun?

WM182 Purple Hellebore does best in part shade.