Species

Helleborus x sterniiHelleborus sternii

5 other cultivars

perennial

Fire and Ice Hellebore

Helleborus x sternii 'Fire and Ice'

The Story

Plant Bio

Helleborus x sternii 'Fire and Ice' is an evergreen perennial with leathery, serrated, blue-green leaves often with creamy-white veining. In late winter and early spring, it produces outward-facing, cup-shaped flowers that are creamy white flushed with pink and rose.

This cultivar is noted for its silvery, blue-green foliage with cream veining and its bicolored flowers that age from creamy-white to shades of pink and deep rose-red.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking evergreen foliage and winter interest, enhancing shaded garden areas.

Cold-hardy and low-maintenance, ideal for shaded borders and woodland gardens.

Supports pollinators early in the season and provides shelter for birds.

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

Prefers moist, well-drained soil

Humidity

Average garden humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mediterranean

Toxicity

Toxic to pets and humans if ingested

Bloom period

Late winter

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck roots into well-draining soil in a shaded spot.
Mist cuttings or plant divisions in early spring.
Water regularly, especially during dry spells.
Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Remove old leaves in late winter for better appearance.

Pro Tip

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

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture
Remove damaged leaves after flowering

Don't

Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
Don't expose to full sun, which can scorch leaves
Refrain from heavy fertilizing late in the season

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderEvergreen focal pointFragrant shaded garden

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Astilbes Brunnera Heuchera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Fire and Ice Hellebore questions

What zones can Fire and Ice Hellebore grow in?

Fire and Ice 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 Fire and Ice Hellebore deer resistant?

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

When does Fire and Ice Hellebore bloom?

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

Does Fire and Ice Hellebore need full sun?

Fire and Ice Hellebore does best in part shade.