The Christmas rose bears somewhat of a misnomer since it will only flower around Christmas in well protected areas, it normally flowers in late winter to early spring. Flowers are white with yellow stamens born on red-spotted peduncles, although quite a bit of variation can occur since they are usually seed propagated. This species is known for its flowers and some selections have red to rose speckling on the white sepals. Lenten rose is another species whose flowers are the main attraction although the foliage is attractive as well. Leaves are 12 to 18 inches across, palmate and divided into 7 or more leaflets.
Flower color ranges from white to a rich burgundy, some with speckles.
Lenten rose is vigorous and quickly establishes good sized clumps. It sets seed well and will spread somewhat but is not weedy. The hellebores are propagated primarily by seed but in the case of the more vigorous ones, like Lenten rose, division. Although seeds readily germinate in nature it can be a challenge to the propagator. Seed of most hellebores is ripe by mid-summer, when the seed pods begin to split, and should be sown within 2 weeks if collected or allowed to naturally seed in beds.