External size is visible and easy to measure in centimeters. Inner greatness can only be recognized by consciously looking and then described with appropriate words. The Christmas rose is small on the one hand, but very large on the other. Information and observations follow.
What size does a Christmas rose reach?
The Christmas rose (Helleborus niger) growshorstigand can reach aheight between 10 and 30 cm. Some new varieties can also reach 50 cm in height. In order for a perennial to grow and bloom optimally, it needs a partially shaded location with well-drained soil.
How quickly does the Christmas rose reach its full size?
The Christmas rose grows as a herbaceous plant that can develop its full height potentialin its first year of growth. Around the time of flowering in winter, the old leaves turn yellow and dry out. They should be removed promptly to prevent fungal diseases. The plant regains the size it has lost after flowering by sprouting fresh greenery. With the years of life, of which around 25 to 30 are allotted to it, the clump can become stronger and produce up to 100 flowers per season. The Christmas rose can also spread itself through seeds and thus take up more and more space.
How big do Christmas rose flowers get?
The small perennial has comparatively large flowers. They have adiameter between 5 and 10 cm and are pure white, occasionally with a touch of pink. The flowers are simple and reminiscent of wild roses. The Christmas rose blooms between November and March, even under a blanket of snow, which is why it is also called the snow rose. The name Lenzrose is also often used in connection with the Christmas rose. But the Lentenrose is a unique species of hellebore that blooms a few weeks later and in multiple colors.
How do I properly care for Christmas roses so that they grow big?
Plant the hardy Christmas roses under deciduous trees. The green leaves will protect them from the sun, the fallen leaves will warm and nourish the roots and protect the soil from drying out. Then there's not much left to do:
- (only) fertilize lean soil twice a year
- after flowering and in late summer
- watering on hot days in summer
- if necessary also in winter on frost-free days
- cut off wilting leaves when flowers appear
Why is the Christmas rose considered a special plant?
A plant that can withstand the cold and open magnificent flowers must be a “big one”, a fighter. Symbolically, hope and innocence are attributed to her,because she blooms at the birth of Christ, and is also “immaculately” white. It has practical significance as a medicinal plant in homeopathic remedies for depression, anxiety, migraines and constipation.
Tip
Christmas roses can also grow in pots
The external size of Christmas roses is of secondary importance because they are planted for their winter flowering period and their symbolism. If you cultivate a Christmas rose as a houseplant, you can decorate the Christmas living room with its flowers.
