Well worth the wait is the Lenten Rose or Helleborus. It has taken around three years for my plants to really take hold and offer up beautiful flowers. I love my three plants, and this Spring they have produced a lovely effect in my shade border.
Michigan is a great location for these plantings, as sometimes warm, wet or humid conditions that are present in other States, would lead to disease.
I especially love their speckled flowers and the shape of the leaves. The colors are muted in each of these cultivars, although I believe that adds to their charm. Somehow this plant reminds me of days gone by, and old friend, or gardens of the past.
I wish my whole border was filled with Lenten Rose, as I have come to really love their beautiful blossoms when Spring is just emerging in Michigan.
angel food garden 