Commonly called the Christmas rose the early-flowering Helleborus niger brings cheer to this shady corner alongside Middle Walk.
A native of central Europe, where it grows in shaded woodlands, Helleborus niger is one of 15 species of this much-admired genus. It is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial with over-wintering, divided, leathery leaves which act as an effective foil to the pure-white, open, saucer-shaped flowers. This species can be difficult to establish in the garden, though enjoys moist neutral to alkaline soil in shade, and appreciates a regular dose of leaf mould or organic matter.