Helleborus Wedding Party 'True Love' displays dramatic double blooms in rich shades of deep burgundy and black cherry creating a bold contrast against its leathery evergreen foliage. This cultivar is distinguished by its velvety petal texture and consistent flower form offering moody elegance in winter landscapes. The long blooming season and nodding habit make it a focal point in shaded gardens and containers during the coldest months.
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: Moist, well drained soil rich in organic matter
Watering Needs: Moderate; requires consistent moisture during active growth
Deer Resistance: Highly resistant to deer and rabbits due to toxic compounds in the foliage
Native Status
This hybrid hellebore descends from Helleborus orientalis and allied European species. While not native to North America, it thrives in temperate climates and supports early season ecology.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Offers vital pollen and nectar to honeybees and native bumblebees in late winter, especially Bombus impatiens and early Andrena species.
Butterflies
- Supports overwintered adult butterflies such as Mourning Cloaks and Question Marks during warm late winter days.
Moths
- Visited by Small Engrailed, Pale Brindled Beauty, and other cool season moths that seek nectar early in the season.
Birds
- Evergreen foliage provides winter cover and shelter for juncos, wrens, and other ground birds.
Beneficial Insects
- Acts as a refuge for overwintering beetles and spiders and supports parasitoid wasps that emerge in early spring.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to highlight each plant’s floral silhouette and allow airflow under foliage.
Landscape Placement:
- Excellent in shaded entryways, along woodland paths, or as a container specimen for early season color and structure.
Companion Plants
- Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost' - Its shimmering silver leaves and soft blue flowers contrast elegantly with the bold hues of 'True Love'.
- Galanthus nivalis (Snowdrop) - Provides a delicate white foil and seasonal synchrony with hellebore’s deep tones.
- Carex morrowii 'Ice Dance' - Evergreen blades with white margins brighten dark hellebore blooms and add soft motion in the understory.
- Narcissus 'Tête-à-Tête' - Sunny yellow mini-daffodils offer height variation and brilliant seasonal pairing in part shade.
- Cyclamen coum - Compact habit and jewel toned flowers intensify the moody palette of 'True Love'.