Helibores grow wild under the trees all over Bagni di Lucca. Even though there is snow on the ground these hardy little plants are beginning to appear.
Here’s one we prepared earlier. I photographed this one last year in Limano. They are such pretty little flowers…I’m glad they are back.
Bella Bagni di Lucca 
They are beautiful; however, careful with the black variety as it can be toxic.
I have only seen the green ones here. I don’t pick them anyway, I like to see them under the trees.
This will interest you
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helleborus_niger
And the flower is white. I have seen them in the area. It can cause a heart attack and was used in witchcraft…
Love these. Mine are just starting to bloom, and remind me that Spring is not far away.