Hellebores are the one of the earliest flowers in spring to bloom and begin the gardening season. Most have white, lime-green, or pink to purple flowers, so ‘Red Racer’ is a stand out with its deep red, velvety blooms. A single plant can bear up to 75 flowers, each one up to 3” across! One of the Winter Thriller series developed by Chris Hansen, ‘Red Racer’ also has outstanding vigor and luscious foliage. The large leathery leaves are mahogany in color as they emerge in spring and then turn dark green for the rest of the year, lasting well into winter. ‘Red Racer” is an excellent selection for a shade garden with moist soil.
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Bloom: Dark red velvety flowers up to 3” across from early to late spring.
Foliage: Large, evergreen, leathery mahogany leaves emerge in spring and turn dark green.
Size: 18-22” H x 24” W
Light: Part shade to full shade
Soil: Humusy, moist, well-drained
Hardiness: Zones 4-9
Care: Cut leaves back in late winter before flowers emerge
Pests and Diseases: None of significance
Propagation: Division
Companion plants: Witchhazel, spring bulbs, hostas, ferns, Solomon’s seal, astilbe.
Karen Meyers