
Red Sapphire Lenten Rose
Helleborus x hybrida 'Red Sapphire'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
14 inches
Width
21 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate, keep soil moist
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe and Western Asia
Toxicity
Toxic to pets and humans if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Helleborus x hybridus, or Lenten Rose, are clump-forming, late winter to early spring-blooming perennials. They feature leathery, evergreen, deeply-lobed, dark green leaves and cup-shaped, nodding flowers. 'Red Sapphire' is noted for its large, single, cup-shaped flowers of a rich, deep ruby-red to burgundy color, often with contrasting yellow stamens. The flowers face outwards, making them highly visible in the winter garden.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck mature plants into well-prepared, moist soil in early fall.
- Mist cuttings lightly and keep in indirect light for root development.
- Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
- Divide clumps in early spring or late summer to promote healthy growth.
Pro Tip
Plant in partial shade with rich, well-draining soil for best flowering and foliage health.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Apply mulch annually to conserve moisture
- Remove old leaves to prevent disease
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not expose to harsh, direct midday sun
- Avoid disturbing roots during dormancy
- Do not neglect to remove diseased foliage
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Red Sapphire Lenten Rose questions
What zones can Red Sapphire Lenten Rose grow in?
Red Sapphire Lenten Rose 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 Red Sapphire Lenten Rose deer resistant?
Yes — Red Sapphire Lenten Rose is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Red Sapphire Lenten Rose bloom?
Red Sapphire Lenten Rose typically blooms in early spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Red Sapphire Lenten Rose need full sun?
Red Sapphire Lenten Rose does best in part shade.
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