Helleborus orientalis

These evergreen plants bring an architectural quality to the shady garden. Most bloom in early winter in mild climates and in late winter or very early spring where the ground freezes hard. Resistant to both deer and voles, they are long-lived and provide exquisite blooms at a time when flowers are a scarce delight  Hellebores are at their best in evenly moist well-drained soil in partial shade. Water well during extended dry periods; they are drought-tolerant once established.  Hellebores appreciate a soil pH near neutral so the addition of lime is beneficial in acidic soils.  (Courtesy of Missouri Botanical Gardens Plant Finder)