Many varieties of amaryllis will flourish outdoors in West Virginia so they can be planted in the garden for many seasons of colorful bloom. Christmas rose , Helleborus niger, has divided, leathery, evergreen foliage that provides an interesting setting for the cup-shaped, droopy flowers. This is one more of the welcome heralds of spring that blooms in the late winter or the very early spring. When the flowers open, they are white and then turn to pink as they age. The Christmas rose will perform best in partial shade in moist, rich, well-drained soil that is somewhat alkaline.
Seed germination is improved by freezing the seeds.
Protect from strong winds. This plant will self-sow and spread slowly to naturalize a shady area. It is reported to be toxic if eaten. Christmas peppers , Capsicum annuum , are a recent addition to the holiday plant gift list. Capsaicin is an irritating compound that gives the peppers their pungent odor and causes the skin irritation that is commonly associated with the processing or consumption of hot peppers.