Wedding Party® Dark and Handsome Lenten Rose

Plant in spring or fall in a shaded spot with moist, humus-rich soil. Lenten roses are one of the best perennial choices for deep shade. Prepare the soil with compost or leaf mold, space plants 18–24 inches apart, and water well. Apply a generous mulch of shredded leaves or bark to retain moisture and gradually improve the soil as it breaks down.

Cut away all old foliage in late winter, just before the flower buds begin to emerge from the base of the plant. This allows the dark, brooding flowers to be seen clearly and removes overwintered foliage that may harbor fungal issues. Once blooming is established, this is an effortless plant. It self-seeds over time. No regular fertilizing is needed in rich organic soil.