This perennial is semi-evergreen so it can lose some of its leaves in winter. In colder regions or more exposed gardens, it may lose them all, but then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: partial shade
• Soil: neutral to alkaline, freely draining soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: February to April
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  The outward-facing flowers of this hellebore are larger than average, and as they perch on tall, upright stems that rise above the silver-mottled foliage, they put on a much showier display. Each bloom has a starburst-like boss of stamens, which is surrounded by quite leathery (and therefore long-lasting) reddish purple and green petals, that add a much-needed shot of colour to the winter garden.
  
  
• Garden care: Add lots of well-rotted leaf mould or organic matter to the planting hole. Apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted organic matter around the base of the plant in autumn and provide a top-dressing of general fertiliser each spring. its whopping flat-faced flowers (up to 7cm across) from late