Helleborus Honeymoon 'Tropical Sunset' is a striking hellebore cultivar known for its vibrant two toned flowers in shades of golden yellow splashed with deep burgundy red. The dramatic coloration and upward facing blooms make it a standout in late winter gardens while its sturdy stems and leathery evergreen foliage provide structure and year round appeal. Flowering well before most perennials awaken, it creates a bold focal point in shaded beds and early spring arrangements.
Height & Spread: 18 - 24 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Late winter to early spring
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Rich, organic, well drained soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture in spring and fall
Deer Resistance: Highly deer and rabbit resistant due to toxic foliage
Native Status
This cultivar is part of a hybrid hellebore series developed from species native to Europe and western Asia. It is not native to North America but is widely adapted to temperate garden conditions.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Supports early emerging species such as Spring Azure and Mourning Cloak by offering nectar in late winter and early spring.
Bees
- Visited by early season pollinators including honeybees, bumblebees, and small native ground nesting bees.
Moths
- Attracts overwintered adult moths such as Large Yellow Underwing and other nocturnal species during warm late winter nights.
Beneficial Insects
- Provides early season foraging for beneficial predatory insects and supports overall garden biodiversity when little else is in bloom.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to accommodate slow spreading clumps and long term naturalization.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for use in shaded foundation beds, woodland gardens, or under deciduous trees and shrubs where winter sun highlights its early blooms. Excellent for containers or cutting gardens as a winter floral accent.
Companion Plants
- Polygonatum odoratum 'Variegatum' (Variegated Solomons Seal) - Arching stems and cream edged foliage provide graceful contrast and extend seasonal interest after hellebore blooms fade.
- Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost' - Frosty silver foliage and soft blue flowers add brightness and textural variation in shaded spring borders.
- Pulmonaria 'Raspberry Splash' - Distinct spotted foliage and early blooms echo hellebore colors and thrive in similar conditions.
- Hosta 'Blue Angel' - Large blue toned leaves offer a cooling counterpoint to Tropical Sunset’s warm blooms as the season progresses.
- Ferns (Various) - Add a soft backdrop of delicate green fronds that enhance hellebore form and maintain visual interest throughout the growing season.