Stout but dwarf perennials, with showy blooms appearing in winter and spring when flowers are rare, and with handsome leathery and glossy leaves. They thrive in almost any position or soil ; but to get the full benefit of their early-blooming tendency it is desirable to place them on sunny grassy banks in tufts or groups, and not far from the eye, as they are usually of unobtrusive colours. They form beautiful ornaments near wild wood walks, where the spring sun can reach them. There are various kinds useful for naturalisation.