I'm a big fan of Heronswood Nursery and already placed my order this year. Last year I ordered three of their color strain hybrid plants and was not very pleased with the hue of the plants. I understand that these are seed strains and are quite variable. But for the premium price, I'll stick to buying my Hellebores locally so I can pick my colors in person. I suggest you do the same unless you are buying a clonally propagated plant (not a seed-grown strain). Heronswood is reputable, however, so I'm sure the "gallon to d2 bait-and-switch" was truly just an oversight. After all, they sell hundreds of plants and most of their hellebores are gallon size. Someone just made a mistake.

I do know that communicating nicely with them goes a long way to getting things resolved satisfactorily.

Hi Willow. You might want to check out the link below. 3 qt. size for $20. Their plants are always of good size. Though not listed there specifically, I know they grow the Heronswood form (and several others) so may be possible to request that one if you're particularly keen.

Here is a link that might be useful: ericsmithii

Yes, the folks at Pine Knot are great. You won't go wrong there.