Springtime is when the Lenten Rose (Helleborus orientalis) is in full bloom. It is not a Rose, but instead in the Buttercup family. The Lenten Rose is not to be confused with the Christmas Rose. The Christmas Rose blooms in December with white flowers, and is also in the buttercup family. Copyright 2022 Pamela BreitbergNewly opened “flowers” of the Lenten Rose. What appears as the flowers are actually sepals which will protect the seeds as they form later in the season. Leaves are evergreen and provide garden interest throughout the summer months. Copyright 2022 Pamela Breitberg