Re: what to plant with Hellebore
I agree that Artemisias, especially the low growing ones like 'Silver Brocade'
would greatly enhance the impact of Hellebore flowers, however most Artemisias
are dormant during the November-March time period in which the various
Hellebores bloom. Perovskia is also dormant during that time period and, at
4-5' tall, would overwhelm even the largest Hellebores.
Ginny makes a good point in that Artemisia and Perovskia have significantly
different cultural requirements than most Hellebores. One of them would end up
being unhappy.
Dean Sliger
Warren, MI, USA
Zone 6B
Ginny wrote:
> Shelia,
>
> Your suggestions to Val would look great together, but I'm not sure how
> practical that combo would be. When I think hellebores, I think, part
> shade, rich, moist, well-drained. When I think about artemisia it's sun,
> average, well-drained soil. Ditto for perovskia, but make it a little
> drier.
>
> To be really successful at gardening, we all need to really think about the
> plants that we are grouping together. We will all have more exuberant
> gardens if we plant according to the plants needs, not our needs.
>
> Try the hellebores at the feet of shrubs (P.J.M. Rhododendron's leaves would
> provide a nice contrast) or plants amongst snow drops, crocuses, species
> tulips, primroses, etc. Something like Kahonechloa macra 'Aureola' (a
> variegated grass with a weeping nature) would look stunning behind
> hellebores. They have the same cultural requirements. The yellow of the
> grass would draw the eye to that part of the garden forcing you to look at
> both plants together. Add some yellow bulbs or primroses and presto chango,
> you have an interesting composition.
>
> Hope that helps a bit.
>
> Ginny (zone 6 in PA)
>
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