Species

Helleborus x sterniiHelleborus sternii

5 other cultivars

perennial

Stern's Hellebore

Helleborus x sternii 'Eagle Crest'

The Story

Plant Bio

Helleborus x sternii is a perennial evergreen with leathery, serrated, blue-green foliage and nodding, cup-shaped flowers in shades of green flushed with pink or purple that bloom in late winter to early spring.

This hybrid is distinguished by its handsome, often silver-veined foliage and its tolerance for drier conditions and more sun than other hellebores.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides elegant winter and early spring blooms, evergreen foliage adds year-round interest.

Prefers shady spots, helping to brighten darker garden corners.

Supports pollinators early in the season, beneficial for local ecosystems.

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

Low to Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Garden origin (Mediterranean parents)

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested, handle with care

Bloom period

Late winter – Early spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into well-drained, humus-rich soil.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Plant in shaded or partially shaded areas for best growth.
Water consistently, especially during dry spells.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade with rich, moist soil for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
Mulch annually to protect roots
Fertilize in early spring for healthy growth

Don't

Avoid overexposing to direct hot sun
Don’t let soil dry out completely ❌
Refrain from disturbing roots excessively

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Woodland borderShade garden bed

Companion Plants

HostaFerns Astilbe Brunnera Epimedium

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Stern's Hellebore questions

What zones can Stern's Hellebore grow in?

Stern's Hellebore 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 deer resistant?

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

When does Stern's Hellebore bloom?

Stern's 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 Stern's Hellebore need full sun?

Stern's Hellebore does best in part shade.

Is Stern's Hellebore drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Stern's Hellebore handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.