Helleborus orientalis is one of the earliest flowering perennials. It blooms in February or March and is seen as a true early sign of spring. Because it usually blooms during Lent, Helleborus orientalis is called Lenten Rose.
Caution the plant name Helleborus is derived from the Greek words helein meaning ‘to injure’ and bora meaning ‘food’, a direct reference to the fact that the leaves, stems and roots of Helleborus plant are poisonous to humans if ingested. Flowers are beautiful and a delight in the cold winter months signaling the coming of spring.
Wikipedia