Before the white flowers of the Christmas rose finally wither in spring, they go through a long “green phase”. They remain pretty to the eye, but are they still useful to the plant? This question must and will be answered below.
Do I have to cut off green flowers from Christmas roses?
No, do not cut off the green flowers because they still have an important function to fulfill. The old leaves of the perennial have already withered, the new ones are not there yet. The green flowers contain chlorophyll and carry out photosynthesis and are energy suppliers.
When do the flowers of the Christmas rose turn green?
The first white flowers of the Christmas rose (Helleborus niger) open in December, sometimes as early as November. They turn greenas soon as fertilization has taken place But when exactly this will happen can never be predicted. Because during the winter flowering period there are hardly any or only a few bees, bumblebees and butterflies around. That's why the flowers of Christmas roses remain fertile for a very long time and are therefore white. If necessary, self-pollination is also possible, so that at some point all the flowers will turn green.
Why can the green flowers carry out photosynthesis?
Theperianth petals can form chloroplasts, which are also responsible for the green color. The energy output achieved is about a third of the output that fully grown leaves can provide. The energy produced by the flowers is enough to fuel the development of the fruits and seeds. There is no alternative to this because old leaves have already died. New foliage only grows after the fruits have ripened.
When can I cut off the green flowers?
Do you want your Christmas roses to grow wild under trees and form larger carpets? Then wait until the seeds are ripe before cutting back. Only cut off flowers and stems when they have become unsightly or the new foliage has appeared. You can cut off flowers at any time, whether white or green, if you don't like them or don't want to propagate them by self-sowing. The snow rose, as the perennial is also called, can cope with pruning and sprout new leaves.
Can I cut green flowers for the vase?
Yes, you can cut both white and green flowers for the vase. A perennial in the bed that has already reached a considerable size can produce up to 100 flowers in one winter, even in the midst of snow. But consider the following points:
- The flowers on the perennial last for a very long time
- flowers wilt in the vase after a few days
- maximum shelf life is approximately one week
- Alternative: Cultivate Christmas rose as a houseplant
Christmas rose flowers that float on water without stems retain their freshness longer than in a vase. To show off well, the water bowl should be flat or transparent.
Tip
Whoever gives you Christmas roses needs your support
The Christmas rose that blooms at Christmas is considered a symbol of hope. Anyone who gives their flowers as a gift wants to say: “Please help me!” However, this meaning is only said for the white flowers, as the color white stands for innocence and purity.
