I’m getting to rather like this hellebore, Pirouette, for the beautiful congestion of flowers and buds, toothed foliage and compact form. Dusky buds, opening to white blooms fading to equally dusky pink. Typical dark green, leathery leaves on a plant reaching 15″ (I’m in an Imperial Mood).
While I am on the subject, Helleborus foetidus, here in the Mediterranean Landscape at Kew – I’m quoting from the Ashwood Nurseries website (link, below) –
An architectural evergreen plant with dark green leathery, divided leaves. The clusters of hanging green flowers edged with purple-brown last from January through to June. A tough native plant that is easy to grow. Prefers partial shade in an alkaline or neutral soil that is not too dry, with plenty of added humus. 45cm (18ins).
These impressive plants are in the open, south-facing borders at Syon – Helleborus argutifolius, the Corsican Hellebore
A handsome robust, evergreen plant forming an upright clump with prickly greyish-green veined leaves. Large terminal clusters of pale green cup-like flowers. Prefers a well-drained fertile soil in full sun, sheltered from cold winds. Prune out old flowering stems if you do not require seed.
http://www.ashwoodnurseries.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=148
The Teddington Gardener 