Winter aconites (Eranthis hyemalis) are native to Southeast Europe and Western Asia. Here they grow in damp deciduous forests and also in meadows. The plants are noted for their early flowering, often at the same time as snowdrops. Winter aconites, have been cultivated since the 16th century.
The plants appear almost overnight, providing a very welcome splash of color in January. Winter aconites have an underground corm, from which the yellow flowers and characteristic frill of leaves emerge.
The photo was taken two days ago in the Botanical Garden of the University of Basel.