I grew up calling these lovely plants ‘Christmas Roses’ because in a milder climate Hellebore niger blooms at that time of year. There are many species of Hellebores but this and Hellebore orientalis, The later flowering, Lenten Rose, are the only ones I have had success with in our very cold winters. Both tend to bloom at the same time in spring in our climate. Originating from Europe and with many hybrids now on the market, there are many types to choose from but I find the originals to be the toughest.