Hellebores are a much-loved member of the Ranunculaceae family, which includes 20 varieties of this beautiful flower. Hellebores flowers are also called the Christmas rose and the Lenten rose. However, hellebores flowers are not roses at all. Because hellebores flowers are tolerant of cold weather and frost, they are among the first flowers to bloom each year in the Conservatory Garden, frequently appearing as early as February or March. Their large, white flowers and thick leaves make this unusual plant easy to recognize. These flowers are common throughout North America and England. Preferring partial shade, well-drained soils, and temperate weather, the hellebores plant adds variety to the Conservatory Garden.