Early Spring Hellebores at Clark Farms
I stopped by Clark Farms to see the hundreds of early spring hellebores they have in stock—shade garden plants that are often hard to find—and they did not disappoint.
It was late in the afternoon, just before closing. The farm was quiet, but inside was a magical surprise: tables filled with elegant flowers in peak bloom and bud, in a wash of colors from pale green to whisper pink tipped in rose, to deep, saturated merlot.
What a treat in early spring.
Parsley & Petal
There were hellebores in containers of all types, stone, ceramic, and terra cotta, gathered beneath metal obelisks and nestled among charming garden statues. The whole scene felt quietly enchanting.
Parsley & Petal
I had a hard time choosing among ‘Ice ’N’ Roses Dark Picotee’, ‘Rose’, and so many others, but eventually came home with two ‘Ice ’N’ Roses Pink Frost.’
Parsley & Petal
As I wandered through, I realized I had always thought of hellebores as woodland plants. I never imagined they would make such beautiful early spring containers, which is perfect, because I’m running out of space in my beds.
Parsley and Petal
The more I thought about it, the more it made sense. My front steps have been looking a little bare; I hadn’t put anything out all winter. With Easter coming up, it would be nice to have a bit of color in the entryway to welcome guests.
I’ve never been much of a pansy person (my older sister, who lives two minutes away, loves them). They’ve always felt a bit fussy and short-lived in my garden, likely because the deer and rabbits enjoy them just as much. Funny, pansies re-seed so effortlessly in hers.
Parsley & Petal
Hellebores, on the other hand, are deer and rabbit resistant, statement plants—strong and architectural in the landscape—especially when mass planted.
They remind me a bit of Japanese anemones, another favorite of mine, which carry the garden later into the season with their fall blooms.
I have plenty of containers already, but this might just be the perfect excuse to come back for a few more, and maybe another hellebore or two.
If you’re new to hellebores or considering adding them to your garden, you might enjoy my Plant Spotlight on Hellebores.
Selected Reading
Deer and Rabbit Resistant Plants for a Northeast Garden: What Actually Survives
A Spring Visit to The Farmer’s Daughter Nursery in Rhode Island
The Seasonal Edit
The Seasonal Edit is a recurring garden checklist of what’s emerging, what can wait, and what deserves attention now. Practical tasks. Clear structure. Timed to the season as it unfolds.