Helleborus orientalis
Hellebores are wonderful plants that bloom in winter and early spring when very little else is flowering. Color ranges from white to dark purple, although some species have greenish flowers. The evergreen foliage is generally dark green and glossy, divided into leaflets. They do very well in shade, even deep shade. They can get by with moderate water, but will look best with regular water. All parts of the plant are poisonous and therefore are left alone by deer and gophers. What a bonus!