perennial

WM112 Purple Hellebore

Helleborus atrorubens 'WM112'

The Story

Plant Bio

Helleborus atrorubens, commonly known as the purple hellebore, is a perennial evergreen plant with leathery, dark green foliage and nodding, bell-shaped flowers in shades of deep purple and maroon that bloom in late winter to early spring.

Cultivar WM112 is distinguished by its particularly rich, dark coloration and increased flower production, making it a striking addition to winter garden displays.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides early spring foliage interest and evergreen structure.

Prefers shaded, moist areas, reducing the need for irrigation.

Supports local pollinators and wildlife in shaded garden zones.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moist, well-drained soil

Humidity

Prefers humid conditions

Lifespan

Long-lived perennial

Native To

Southeastern Europe

Toxicity

Toxic to pets and humans if ingested

Bloom period

Early spring – Mid-spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a shaded site with moist, well-drained soil.
Tuck seeds or divisions into the soil in late summer or early fall.
Mist cuttings lightly to encourage rooting over 6 weeks.
Apply organic compost around the roots in early spring.
Mulch to retain soil moisture during dry periods.
Transplant in early spring or fall for best results.

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 🌱
Mulch annually to preserve moisture
Remove dead foliage in early spring

Don't

Avoid dry, exposed sites ❌
Do not over-fertilize, which can cause legginess
Never allow soil to become waterlogged

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderEvergreen groundcoverUnderstory shrub

Companion Plants

HostaFerns AstilbeJapanese Maples Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

WM112 Purple Hellebore questions

What zones can WM112 Purple Hellebore grow in?

WM112 Purple Hellebore is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is WM112 Purple Hellebore deer resistant?

Yes — WM112 Purple Hellebore is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does WM112 Purple Hellebore bloom?

WM112 Purple Hellebore typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does WM112 Purple Hellebore need full sun?

WM112 Purple Hellebore does best in part shade.