A filler plant is a plant used to ‘fill’ the gaps between structural plants in a garden or a border. It is usually chosen for its ability to grow quickly and its adaptability to various conditions. Filler plants usually will not have a competitive nature and they should compliment the planting rather than overshadow it. Examples of filler plants include low-growing perennials, ground covers, and annual plants that can easily be replaced.
Helleborus x hybridus is a versatile plant as it can be used in a variety of design situations.Using it in your planting design it will add early-season color as it looks great in winter. With the right companion planting and position in the planting bed, it can become a standout feature in the design. I would use it in groups/masses rather than as an individual plant. Here are some suggestions on how/where I would use it:
1. Woodland Gardens
Helleborus x hybridus thrives in a partial to a full shade spot, which makes it an ideal plant for woodland gardens or shaded borders. You can also plant it under deciduous trees where it can receive dappled sunlight in winter.2. Mixed Borders
You can combine it with other shade-tolerant perennials such as ferns to create a green-lush effect. Its early bloom period provides color to your design when many plants are dormant in winter.3. Ground Cover
I love using it in groups/masses as a groundcover in shaded areas. Its evergreen foliage creates a lush carpet, which also helps with supressing weeds and leaving gaps in the planting.4. Winter Interest
Plant it in areas where you can admire its winter and early spring flowers. Good choices are near pathways or even by the window so you can enjoy the flowers from indoors during colder months.5. Containers
It is a plant you can see in pots/containers, which makes it a great plant for projects where garden space is limited.6. Companion Planting
Pair it up with early spring bulbs like snowdrops and early daffodils.7. Naturalistic Planting
Incorporate it into naturalistic or woodland-style gardens.8. Edging
It is an excellent plant for the front side of the border/edging. Its tidy, clumping habit and attractive foliage provides a neat, finished look.9. Rock Gardens
If you have a shaded rock garden, it is an excellent plant as it can grow in a limited space, in the crevices and nooks of your border.10. Mass Planting
For a dramatic effect, plant it in masses.
