Helleborus is a wonderful genus of late winter or early spring flowering perennials. There are a number of species and countless hybrids, all very garden-worthy. In mild climates they are evergreen, but generally die back like other perennials in cold climates. Hardiness in your climate may be an issue - you will need to get input from local gardeners or ask at your local nursery on availability. Typically the Christmas rose or Helleborus niger is considered one of the hardiest of the genus but coloring is restricted to white or a very pale pink. The widest range of flower colors will be available with the x hybridus, but it is often best to purchase these in bloom to get exactly the color you desire - they are seed strains and coloration is extremely variable.

Helleborus x hybridus is very easy to grow from seed but it will take several years before the plants achieve blooming maturity. For your first dip into hellebore growing you might want to purchase a 2 or 3 year old plant so you can enjoy it immediately. There are lots of excellent mail order nurseries offering hellebores and they are becoming more popular in retail garden centers across the country.

The following link will give you a brief overview of the genus and its attributes and growing requirements.

Here is a link that might be useful: hellebore info